Celebrity shoe designer Rupert Sanderson is a master in his own industry, outfitting socialites and women of substance around the globe, but also major A-listers. With a similar upbringing as my friend Nicholas Kirkwood, I suppose there must be major creative exploration when one grows up as a “army brat.” He took a few minutes to speak to Haute Living about who is wearing his line, his 2014 trend forecast, his dreams and inspirations.
WHAT CELEBRITIES ARE WEARING YOUR SHOES?
Naomi Watts, Julia Roberts, Jessica Chastain, Victoria Beckham. All the Kate’s – Beckinsale, Winslet, Blanchett, the Duchess of Cambridge!
WHAT TRENDS DO YOU FORSEE IN 2014?
The flat has a great appeal this season. I love a really sharp, fresh silhouette like my Ohio flat (available to buy this SS14 at Saks Palm Beach). I see this as a shape that will have a great presence in 2014. There’s a fantastic elegance that accompanies the lower heel height too – I love the delicate simplicity of my deconstructed Mary-Jane Fedora heel.
IS HIS GOAL TO BE BOUGHT OUT BY A COMPANY LIKE LVMH?
Right now we are doing well and enjoying growing as we are. Last year I opened my second store in the prestigious Elements Mall in Hong Kong and later this year we will open our first store in Shanghai. We have some exciting collaborative projects in the works and are working again with the very talented Antonio Berardi on his runway show.
WHO WOULD YOU IDEALLY LOVE TO BE WEARING HIS SHOES?
As you can see from the list above we have a great list of Rupert Sanderson girls – so more of the above! The Rupert Sanderson woman definitely has to be a ‘woman of substance’ – someone who knows her own mind and who isn’t restrained by the rule makers of fashion.
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT INSPIRATION?
Low rider hot rods, Persian carpets, 60’s sci-fi, nico and the velvet underground, 70’s London designer Jean Muir.
WHERE DO YOU DESIGN OUT OF?
Dreamt in London, made in Italy. I design every shoe in my London studio, situated in the heart of Mayfair. I have the luxury of owning my own factory just outside Bologna in Italy where each Rupert Sanderson shoe is made completely by hand. My inspiration comes from the materials themselves: from the sensual curve and silhouettes of the lasts and heels, to the quality and finish of the best leather and fabrics.
RUPERT SANDERSON is sold at Saks Fifth Avenue in Palm Beach. 172 Worth Ave, Palm Beach, FL 33480
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