Fresh off a frenetic trip to Europe, Level Shoe District‘s head buyer Alberto Oliveros talks about his must-have brands and top trends for fall 2016.
FAVORITE COLLECTIONS:
“Dries Van Noten collection was superb, chic and definitely on the top of my list. His velvet boots, pumps and sandals with exquisite pearl details are what dreams are made of. For me, this was a standout collection!”
“Francesco Russo, as always, was nothing short of amazing. Francesco’s woven sandals and boots are a perfect example of his excellent craftsmanship – he excited us with his new ankle strap pumps which I find to be ultra-feminine.”
“Gianvito Rossi took his iconic peep-toe bootie — with its low opening along the front of the foot — and gave it a military update, adding rich gold buttons. Gianvito also made every woman’s dream come true by offering his sexy knitted boots and booties in a closed toe version – perfect for the fall months ahead.”
Watch on FN
“Edgardo Osorio’s collection for Aquazzura was stunning and playful. His sandals, ballerinas and boots in shades of velvet were adorned with jeweled bugs and insects – definitely a season must have.”
“Pierre Hardy stayed true to his unique identity. His 3D jewels detailed sneakers and sandals were gorgeous; his combination of colours was beautiful and unexpected as usual. We’re very excited for his new silhouettes.”
“Chloe’s collection was fresh and cool. The classic Suzanna bootie in velvet screams rock and roll royalty.”
“Paul Andrew’s Istanbul inspired collection was deeply rich. I particularly loved his velvet brocade boots and mid heel pumps.”
“Alessandro Michele’s third collection for Gucci was youthful and cool.”
“Miu Miu’s fur flat slides with pearl and art deco broach were so fun and cool. Their round toe ankle strap sandal took two unexpected turns, both which I loved – first catching my eye was the statement jewel sitting pretty at the back of the shoe and second was the hyper high heel.”
NEW NAMES TO WATCH
“We so excited to introduce to Level Shoe District Marco de Vincenzo for fall ’16. I am completely obsessed with his gorgeous runway mules in pleated satin, offered in the dreamiest range of colours. The mule is hands down a must-have for the season.”
“Malone Souliers’ Indian inspired collection really caught my eye. The attention to detail was impeccable. The mules and pumps are intricately embroidered with a floral design and some tassels. Overall, it was a beautifully done collection.”
“Darmaki is a special designer to the Level family, being from the region we are so proud to see him make his international mark. He takes his signature origami heel into new silhouettes like boots and mules – and even played with metallic in the chicest of ways.”
“Ralph & Russo is a new brand for Level –and we are excited to have them part of our edit for AW’16. The collection is quite literally couture for the feet. Each of the pumps is wrapped beautifully in vine leafs and feathers made in gold and pastel metal details.”
TRENDS I LOVE:
“Velvet nation galore! The biggest trend this season was far too obvious for us to ignore – and particularly the velvet rendition of the bootie was a personal favorite.”
