Behind the Scenes

Who was responsible for those high high shoes that Jessica Stam struggled with at the Chloe A/W06 show?  Of course it wasn’t Phoebe Philo as, for the first time, the label relied on it’s design team to come up with the goods.  In actual fact, the shoes were designed by New Yorker Jenne O who has established her own label.  As well as designing the shoes for Chloe, she is also responsible for the footwear at the Gharani Strok, Heatherette and Michiko Koshino shows.  This is the woman that was also responsible for the fruition of the skull and crossbones scarf at Alexander McQueen, the one that has spawned a thousand copies.  It’s great to see the people behind the labels come forth and establish themselves.  Why keep talent locked away behind the shadow of a brand?   

Looking at her Marc Bolan and Iggy Pop-inspired collection from her own label, I’m really getting a  Vivienne Westwood vibe which is too good to resist.  The heels are somewhat more delicate and tapered in than Westwood’s clog-like heels which makes them a lot racier.  Definitely some shoes to scrimp and pinch for, given the haute haute price tags.