Backing its commitment to foster and grow up-and-coming talent in fashion, Saks Fifth Avenue has just launched a new program in the shoe department to introduce new designers to a nationwide market. Dubbed “Special Delivery to 10022-SHOE,” Saks has selected six footwear designers to show 20 footwear styles that are unlike anything else being shown or available in other stores. Among the designers are Heather Williams and Daniele Michetti, whose collections are exclusive to Saks, Diego Dolcini, Gianvito Rossi, Jonathan Kelsey, and Rupert Sanderson.
“’Special Delivery to 10022-SHOE’ is about showcasing rising designers, which Saks has always believed strongly in, and layering high fashion into our core assortment,” said Ron Frasch, President and Chief Merchandising Officer, Saks Fifth Avenue. “Our shoe trend for the season is the sandal bootie and the designers of these collections offer a variety of interpretations of this must-have item.”
What sets these designers apart from their counterparts is their use of unusual materials such as eel skin, mesh, wood, mirrored surfaces, Plexiglas and ribbons. Heather Williams’ skyskrapping heels are vamped up with zipper teeth and python and embossed leather. Michetti proves he’s deserving of winning the Vogue Italia 2009 “Who is On Next?” with an impressive collection that includes black sandal booties with corset lacing on the back and a larkspur-blue platform pump.
Legendary shoe designer Sergio Rossi’s son Gianvito steps out of his father’s shadow with a collection of shoes “with as few ornamental effects as possible.” He still makes stilettos sexy with unusual materials like mesh and ribbon, an unusual combination that actually looks beautiful together.
Rupert Sanderson’s collections that are currently available at Net-a-Porter and Browns in the UK are classic staples that I equate to Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik classics. Saks opted for yellow patent leather T-straps with flame-shaped cutouts, lizard sandals and raw-edged, black leather cutout heels with zippers at the back from the designer. Diego Dolcini plays up his experience in architecture and construction with one pair of metallic leather sandals has an angular heel made from wood, Plexiglas and a mirrored layer at the back that flashes while you walk.
The “Special Delivery to 10022-SHOE” capsule collection will be available at the New York and Beverly Hills stores with future plans of making it available online. There no plans of expanding nationwide, yet! Special Deliveries will be made at least twice a year, for fall and spring, with the possibility of a cruise collection. The shoes will retail for $495 to $850.
