District L

Last night’s party by Fiorentini + Baker celebrated 10 years of fashion-forward footwear. Fans, friends, and fashionistas poured into the buzzing anniversary celebration, which was held at their flagship store on 54 Mercer Street. The 7pm reception allowed guests to preview F+B’s latest line, as well as an art exhibition by Sergio Pappalettera, titled Prometheus Lives.

But once the crowd was a few flutes deep, a man with a long fur coat and a grovely voice performed Rolling Stone’s Champagne and Reefer. The band’s bluesy tunes set a fitting tone for Fiorentini + Baker's edgy nonchalance and fun-loving attitude.

Post by Amanda LaMela

District L discovered contemporary footwear brand, Feiyue, at Rendez-Vous NYC back in February 2009. Raan Parton, creative director for Apolis Activism and Feiyue spokesperson, presented the canvas-based collection, emphasizing the label’s inspiration through travel and movement. Even the word ‘Feiyue’ translates to “flying forward” in Chinese.

Combining their fresh aesthetic with established functionality, this French label has gained worldwide fervor since its launch in 2006. Now, over two years after District L's initial introduction, Feiyue lands in our inbox, taunting us with a mystery event scheduled for September 10.

That's right. Sometime on 9/10, somewhere in the Meatpacking District, something is going to happen. And we're going to be ready.

Post by Amanda LaMela

Shoe designer, Brian Atwood, has been drumming up buzz with his new contemporary line, B Brian Atwood. The collection, which debuts this week  at Saks Fifth Avenue, has been enjoying a steamy introduction with its provocative campaigns.

Atwood is on everyone's mind with sexy ads inspired by the 1981 film, Body Heat.

It’s mid-August. You know what that means, don’t you? Time to start thinking about my birthday presents!

I can empathize; It’s no easy task. As a footwear aficionado in the industry, it can be difficult to predict my desires from week to week – especially during this period of seasonal transition. And yes, I agree… There should be an easier way to do this.

Interestingly enough, people don’t register for birthday gifts – but if they did, I’d open my registry at Casadei, La Petite Cave, and United Nude. Just…hypothetically speaking.

My birthday is only two short weeks away from NY Fashion Week, welcoming the perfect opportunity for early-autumn attire additions. Keeping that in mind...

I can declare with the utmost conviction that the United Nude Spat boot would not only create the perfect foundation for my F’11 wardrobe, but also be a hit in Lincoln Center. In dark brown calf leather and tweed, the tall-shafted boot combines equestrian elegance with femme fatale.

Casadei, the more subtle assassin, maintains a sharp appearance with its Blade collection. Towering knife-like stilettos will satisfy my need for a sleek, sexy shoe, as well as provide the feeling of security during late-night treks back to my apartment.  Isn’t multitasking fun?

And if you’re looking to give the gift of experience, a few bottles of POP Pink Champagne might just do the trick…

Post by Amanda LaMela

FFANY Shoe Show – Day 1: Eat Wear Your Veggies.

Vegetable tones, earthy prints, and feather embellishments dictate the vibrant direction for Spring 2012. Sunwashed stripes, natural color-blocking, and floral canvases have finally reached new heights in towering wedges and stack-block heels.

The recently-launched Cece L’amour offered a range of vivid color in tall, hearty shapes. These subway-grate-friendly silhouettes also appeal to the minimalists, as brands like Charles Jourdan take a more modern approach with molded constructions.

Two more days of the FFANY Shoe Show still ahead – and we’ve got some big shoes to fill.

Post by Amanda LaMela