As the head buyer for Level Shoe District — Dubai’s international footwear mecca — Alberto Oliveros scopes out hundreds of new collections each season. Here are his favorite styles from the European collections.
BIG HITS
“Pierre Hardy’s ‘Paintbrush Strokes’ were amazing — all the black and white was simply perfect. His use of glitter on his new Mary Jane cubic heel is brilliant.”
“Paul Andrew’s NYC-inspired collection was superb. His Chrysler-inspired single-sole pump in silvers and golds are what dreams are made of.”
“Gianvito Rossi’s reinterpretation of the round toe really caught my eye — I’m obsessed with his version of the Mary Jane.”
“Dries Van Noten’s flower-embroidered jacquard booties are top of the list this season. They’re extremely feminine and cool.”
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TOP TRENDS
“Velvet is definitely the most prominent fabric used this season, as seen throughout the collections. From single-sole pumps to boots to sandals, velvet creates a plush and luxurious feeling in footwear. Known to always set the bar high, Alaia took the velvet trend to the next level, substituting his highly recognizable studding technique with hand-knitted velvet details this season. Velvet fabrics also made an appearance at Balmain.”
“Round toes are this season’s must-wear shape. I am particularly in love with the combination of the Mary Jane and the round toe, transforming this classic silhouette into something fresh, modern and contemporary. We see this again throughout the Gianvito Rossi collection — it has an amazing ’60s and ’70s disco feeling. I also loved the Prada, Aquazurra, Nicholas Kirkwood and Rupert Sanderson collections, all of which reimagined the Mary Jane in a way that is unique to their brand DNA.”
“The classic ankle bootie is seen in many collections this season, but what sets it apart from its predecessors is all the fun details. Dries Van Noten’s jacquard bootie with flower details was a highlight for me — these are one of my must-haves. Other amazing examples are Isabel Marant’s calf-and-suede bootie with large metal button details and Laurence Dacade’s suede Western bootie with multicolored floral embroidery. And I can’t forget Marant’s iconic blue velvet boots, phenomenal as always. Dior’s boots and booties in patent leather are another must-have. I absolutely love this ’70s feeling!”
“The platform trend is the quintessential triple threat: comfort, height and style. Aquazurra’s sexy-thing version in cashmere suede was fun and colorful.”
“Glitter galore. This embellishment was everywhere, especially at Maison Martin Margiela and Pierre Hardy. It gave me Studio 54 vibes!”
NEW DESIGNERS
“Giannico. This 19-year-old designer is a total prodigy. I love his Scarlett lips pump and flats. He is definitely one to watch.”
“Christopher Kane. His second footwear collection was truly powerful. His metallic slides are perfect for the fashion-forward customer at Level Shoe District.”
“Oscar Tiye’s Minnie Mouse flats are adorable and animated. I love how Amina brought adventure to her lace pump by adding a touch of Minnie as well.”
“Vionnet’s mink flats are the ultimate indulgence and beyond chic. A season must-have!”
