Francesco Russo — who has kept a tight hold over his distribution since launching in 2013 — is taking a big step next month: The designer will debut his collection on Net-a-Porter.com.
To mark the launch, Russo is partnering with the luxury e-tailer on an exclusive capsule. “We chose a mix of classic styles and looks from the spring ’16 collection,” Russo explained. “Then we customized them in a combination we call lacquered leopard, which includes one of the materials we always use — leopard-printed calf hair — and patent in black and red as a tribute to the Chinese lacquer that is one of my personal obsessions.”
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Ida Petersson, senior buyer for shoes at Net-a-Porter.com, said: “Francesco’s spring ’16 collection was one of the season’s standouts. He is a rare talent whose designs transcend a particular season. They feel relevant and timeless, making every pair an investment.”
The designer is also working on a bridal capsule for Level Shoe District in Dubai. “This is another example of meeting the needs of the client,” said Russo, adding that the project was born after he visited the retailer’s bridal room.
Meanwhile, Russo also launched an expanded custom program for spring. The new offering — which includes various pump and sandal styles in different heel heights, colors and materials — is a good example of why Russo continues to differentiate himself in a crowded designer market. (There are nine styles and 20 colors available, and once a custom order is placed, it takes about six weeks for it to be delivered.)
Click through the gallery to see Russo’s exclusive styles.
