FRATELLI ROSSETTI FALL 2013 Men's and Women's Shoes+Boots

West 57th Street, NYC

Zoning out on the home-bound subway, we kept re-reading (and re-reading) those plastered all over the subway car ads- temporarily monopolized by a contemporary American shoe company-with the tag line "Be a better person tomorrow than you are today."

Not trademarked---but an expression we figured- somehow- figured in with the ad's images of Spring attired females -occupying sidewalk space in street settings that could sub-in for 38.3% of the Big Apple boroughs.

bold color blocking-in classic Fratelli Rossetti models

And it reminded us of how well- crafted shoes would certainly make anyone a better dressed person tomorrow-or today--- and certainly wearing any item in the terrific sophisticated and polished collections of footwear- for men/women- that we recently previewed -by the Italian masters-Fratelli Rossetti.

A company that is not part of mega- conglomerate (as the aforementioned is)-but--- still family owned-and hand crafted by skilled cobblers in Italy. Quality control within walking distance. Bravo.

We've been previewing Fratelli Rossetti seasonal offerings for awhile ---and each time-we are always amazed at how a label with deep archival wealth (think- their casual elegance of the iconic Brera tasseled men's shoe)---manages to conjure up new interpretations of timeless models and new silhouettes-"...brimming with detail and quality."

For women-the multi-toned bold color combos of leather---are so fresh---especially when married on several tried and true shoe styles-an oxford and cropped boot -both lace-ups, a t-strap-Mary jane style and classic round toe pumps on a slight platform---embellished with men's inspired details-(perforated toe uppers)---ALL inspired by the glam Carnaby Street of London in the 60's.

the thin ankle strap pump reminds us of the 70's too-the kind of shoes our older relatives spent the night in-dancing away---updated in in terrific autumnal tones on a hint of a platform.

Plush leather handbags---includin this luxurious oversized zipped top satchel-tat fits perfectly on a shoulder.

glossy patinas-in beautiful deep tones-achieved by hand application-on masculine tasseled moccasin and and spiffy Oxford-for the ladies-with a narrower silhouette.

two tones/two textures---classic pump and a slip-on-with slight platform.

a mannish look-lace-up and a loafer---feminized with elevated platform and solid heels...added height but still walkable

these are wonderful interpretations of the men's two buckle boots/shoes- a Central European atmosphere that pervades some of the men's selections too.

practical styles-a weather tough boot-and slip-on-leather and wool-nice mix of textures-with breathable leather lining

A favorite corner of the room for us---the display containing these bold modern black patent leather/white leather combos-all with a sleek tapered toe....in booties-that are mule hybrids (imo), an ankle boot with a mod strap above the ankle, a smooth men's style lace-up (that'll make the men jealous)---and a fringed, slip-on with a tiny strap. WOW.

And a matching oversized frame handbag...lady-like-but not old-lady--- and practical

evening slippers---in a printed fur/brocade-with tassels

Equestrian style classics- a short and tall boot-in plush leather-with saddle cut overlays, straps and handsome harness hardware.

another plus over-sized satchel---with leather inset logo

tassled loafers, smooth lace-ups, classic penny (euro) loafer---in rich Fall tones

with a heel-solid loafers with tassel...

FRATELLI ROSSETTI ONE---a sportier side of luxury footwear---with crepe outsoles and cushioned footbeds---weekend wear for the feet.

suede lace-up boot

Fun-slip-ons in patterns and colors...

perfect work pumps-elegant and streamlined...for all the 6' gals in our family who never wear heels.

A nifty take on the pumped-up kicks-high-top style---in leather/patent leather toe caps, back heel- and trim.

black or white outsoles add punctuation to statement making sneakers

Men's footwear this season had styles featuring a special hammered leather with a clearly visible grain.

hiker style upper is merged with classic men's derby...clever and polished...we can see men wearing this with suits as well as jeans.

even the rugged rubber sole is elegant

military style---three buckles on a boot references Central Europe-with clearly visible welt stitching

The hammered leather mixes well with smooth leather too---

double buckles---in a masculine shoe-a new classic

Iconic men's styles---get new Fall 2013 finisihings---with these rich/deeply burnished colors---a purple/eggplant, a deep brown/gold...and an antique olive-paired with a warm brown...all hand applied/polished.