SHOE DESIGNS TAKE A STEP FORWARD
When architecture inspires footwear, let modish microbuildings do the walking. This idea had Francesco Russo fashioning beautiful pairs of micro-buildings for Sergio Rossi’s autumn/winter 2013-14 collection.
The exaltation of shoes as an expression of architectonic design, according to the creative director, is not about presenting a group of geometric shapes but complete constructions presenting pink gold and steel elements relating to the realm of architecture. Russo did this collection to also pay tribute to Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, who through his work has forged a union between architectural vision and engineering principles.
A signature item of the new collection, a spike-heeled pump, is designed with a gem-set steel support cage between heel and sole. The decorative cage also serves as a functional element echoing the metal frameworks essential to building construction.
Shoes in black, white and nude hues are in line with the concept of a pure clean design whereas striking high heels come in bright pink and electrifying red to stylishly step ahead.
In the 1970s the Italian designer shoe brand first made a name for itself on catwalks, especially for Versace’s shows, emphasising how shoes are essential accessories. Today, its sandals and pumps are desirable accessories for fashionistas.
Iconic designs include Vague platform sandals, Mermaid sandal booties with scalloped cut-out details, and Tourbillon pumps with buckled ankle straps.
Taking a minimum of 120 steps, the fashionable shoes are still made in Romagna, Italy, where Sergio Rossi began learning the art of shoe-making way back in the 1950s.
The Sergio Rossi collection is exclusively available at Shoe-ciety on the first floor of Central Chidlom.