Embroidered sandals, as well as sneakers, and clogs are the height of chic this summer. Call it longing for the flower power aesthetic of the seventies, or renewed interest in traditional artisan embellishments, of which embroidery is the most spectacular, or fashion industry’s response to the consumer’s desire to stand out and own a (relatively) unique piece of wearable art, but…. Bottom line is that embroidered shoes are back big time and probably for more than one season.
The most striking example of embroidered sandals comes from Paloma Barceló, a brand with a very distinctive and daring artistic streak. I already talked about some of the shoes from Paloma Barceló‘s Spring-Summer 2017 collection, but here come the heavy hitters (figuratively, physically they are actually light):
This sandal looks massive, and it is, volume-wise (not weight-wise, as the high heel and platform are made out of cork). The expansive heel and platform are a perfect canvas for the intricate multi-color floral embroidery appliqué that covers most of the available surface. The black suede upper serves as contrasting background, showcasing the beauty of the embroidery. An amazing tour de force by one of the most creative Spanish luxury shoe designer brands!
The “Toulon” embroidered platform sandal is a bit less intricate in design than the “Theze Flores” sandal above, but the uninterrupted contoured platform has the advantage in showing off the embroidery design in all its glory. I literally can’t take my eyes off it.
Also quite extraordinary is Castañer‘s anniversary limited edition version of its classic “Carina” espadrille wedge sandal:
Anyone who has taken even a passing glance to this blog knows that I am a big fan of Castañer, an iconic Spanish fashion espadrille brand that just celebrated its 90th anniversary. This “Carina” espadrille is definitely a very fitting tribute to the brand’s longevity and fashion relevance. The primitive style embroidery appliqué is extremely charming and goes amazingly with the cool green Italian satin upper (the laces are cotton). I find this espadrille wedge absolutely delightful. If you want it, act fast: this is a limited edition and it is going to be sold out in a matter of days.
Finally, here is a collection by RAS Shoes, the Spanish shoe brand that excels in extravagant embellishments that range from costume jewelry to boho appliqués. RAS was happy to jump on the embroidery train this summer and this is what they came up with:
RAS Shoes chose denim as a beautiful blue backdrop for the colorful floral, birds, and insects appliqués. The 4.9” high denim covered wedge (offset by a 1.8” platform) provides ample room for meticulously worked parrots, adorable ladybugs, and butterflies, amidst pretty flowers blossoming on tree branches.
Clogs are going strong, just like last summer, but this clog by RAS Shoes is especially chic because of the white leather. The fantasy appliqués give it a flirty bohemian vibe – signature RAS.
Besides embroidered sandals RAS Spring-Summer 2017 collection also includes embroidered slip-on sneakers:
As far as shoes are concerned, it seems like embroidered sandals (or clogs, or sneakers) are the fashion statement piece of the summer. My favorites so far are the Castañer limited edition espadrille wedges and the white RAS clog, which is simply opulent! What about you?
Yours,
Ann
