Alexandre Birman has spent the past several years building his namesake brand in the American market. Now he’s ready to tackle Europe.
The designer and CEO of the Brazilian powerhouse Arezzo & Co. chose Milan Fashion Week to officially inaugurate his showroom on Via Borgospesso. On Thursday evening, he held an intimate dinner in the courtyard — an event that drew models Joan Smalls, Alessandro Ambrosio and more big names. Today, Birman opened the doors for his spring ’19 presentation.
“We have a decent business now in the U.S., and Milan is the right place for an international shoe brand,” Birman said. “Our showroom is in a location that is [central] and easy, but at the same time, it’s a unique place.” Birman set up the space in a former private residence and left the rooms untouched to preserve the original details.
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The executive also now has a sales office and four employees in the city to help fuel the business.
For spring ’19, the designer diversified his collection with a much larger assortment of flats, easy-to-wear slides and new takes on knot detailing. He also offered up a large selection of neon sandals — capitalizing on one of the season’s biggest trends.
Wayne Kulkin, head of international operations, said that as the collection adds depth, the company plans to increase production. After opening a New York store on Madison Avenue this spring, Birman heads south to Miami for fall, where he is unveiling a location in Bal Harbour Shops.
“We have great wholesale partners, and now we’re looking to grow our retail presence in key areas,” Kulkin said, noting that the label is hatching plans for an additional six to seven stores.
Click through the gallery to see more from the Alexandre Birman spring ’19 collection.
