Shoe blog

Runway to Retail: Nicholas Kirkwood for Erdam SS2011

I’ve been meaning to write about these for awhile.  Honestly, how could I not?

(Runway imagery via Style.com)

Nicholas Kirkwood is a shoe genius.  And when he does a collaboration, it’s almost always drool-worthy. On the runway, these shoes he designed for Erdem were simply breathtaking.

The overall Spring 2011 Erdem runway was full of ethereal laces, layered embroidery and vibrant swathes of vivid colors with blended, water-color effects.  Whether in youthful mini dresses or floating maxi dresses, the entire collection exuded femininity, movement, and elegant whimsy*.

And the shoes? The delicate ankle-wraps more than balance out the chunky, substantial  heel -  giving us an overall, balanced, silhouette that feels neither chunky nor heavy as a whole

I reiterate my belief that Nicholas Kirkwood is a  shoe genius.

The retail versions of these are fairly faithful to the runway versions.  Which is wonderful, since they were pretty much perfect to begin with. In addition, a pump has been produced for those of you who, like me, have calves that never seem to allow for successful wearing of such high-wrapped styles. …droopy ankle wraps are neither cute nor sexy, *sigh*.  However, with the substitution of a wide ankle strap to replace the high calf ties, the pumps have a much heavier look and a very different visual balance than the lighter, criss-cross sandals; only serious lovers of funky, chunky heels need apply.

Nicholas Kirkwood for Erdem IIS0002ER silk and suede strappy sandals $850 at Saks.com

Kirkwood for Erdem “Bizaare” ankle-wrap sandals £505 at Brownsfashion.com

Nicholas Kirkwood for Erdem printed silk Mary Jane pumps $978.60 at Luisa Via Roma (£485 at Brownsfashion)

*With the exception of the poor model who’s toe went horribly wonky – though this is not the shoe’s fault but is more indicative of how often models must wear ill-fitting shoes with apparent ease and grace.