10 MINUTES WITH … INÈS DE LA FRESSANGE

How did you get on board at Roger Vivier? By miracle. [ laughs] No, Diego Della Valle asked me to relaunch the brand he’d just bought. At the beginning, I was alone with my assistant and Bruno was just doing the collection. We were a tiny company but it was a great adventure. I was the one who decided to mix up the furniture the way Roger Vivier used to do in his own home. Can you elaborate on your role in the brand? Today, they say that I’m an ambassador, but it doesn’t mean anything. I don’t think they need me anymore because the product is the best ambassador. I don’t need to explain this is a beautiful shoe. What do shoes mean to you? Shoes are a fantasy. Shoes make you the woman you want to be, but are not. Shoes are for shopaholics, like me. Shoes are the toys for women. You can find nice clothes everywhere, but nice shoes, no. What makes a perfect pair of shoes? When those shoes make you so happy, a childlike joy, that little joy is fantastic! You’re happy to have them even if you don’t use them that often. When you’re dreaming of the perfect pair of shoes and you finally find a pair that’s in your size in the shop, you just want to kiss the seller. What is your definition of luxury? Luxury is imagination. Quality, you can find everywhere. Expensive things, they can be expensive but not luxurious. Imagination and identity – that, to me, is true luxury. Any tips on matching shoes with outfits? Buy any kind of outfit and have Roger Vivier shoes, and you’ll make the look. I’m a great example; I have great shoes, jeans, and an awful T-shirt. Do you have any tips on packing light and chic? No, take plenty of things. It doesn’t matter if you don’t use them – who wants to be practical?