Paul Andrew at Capretto Shoes
By Katie Jackson Miami heel addicts received a very special treat when CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner Paul Andrew made an in-store appearance at Capretto Shoes during Art Basel. The beloved South Miami shoe boutique was filled with adoring guests who were able to mingle with, and even receive a quick shoe fitting from, the famous footwear and accessory designer. The British born and now US-based designer certainly has a lot to celebrate. Launching his eponymous line of luxury women’s shoes in Spring 2013, and becoming the first shoe designer to win the prestigious CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, complete with $300,000 and mentoring from some of the most powerful influencers in the industry, Andrew is definitely a rising force. But after perusing Andrew’s latest collection, it is extremely evident why the designer is so successful. Receiving inspiration from a Henri Matisse exhibit called The Cut Outs at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Andrew’s Spring 2015 collection focuses on the juxtaposition of elegant patterns, bright hues, and intriguing cuts. “The idea of layering different textures and materials with matte and shine and different colorations, that’s really the inspiration behind this season,” says Andrew. While it is clear that the appearance of Andrew’s collection is supremely alluring, the design element of his shoes is even more so. Using only the finest manufacturing in Italy in addition to superior materials, Andrew creates shoes that are the epitome of style and luxury. “What I am aiming to do is create the most comfortable but sexy shoe in the market. I did an amazing survey with about 500 different women internationally to understand what is the fit of now. The arch is a very different shape, there is a lot more padding in the insole, so you sort of sink into this cushion, and the heel is positioned in a very specific place.” Though Andrew has traveled to many places across the globe, this is his first time visiting Miami. After arriving late in the evening the night before his Capretto appearance, Andrew says with enthusiasm that he has already fallen in love with the Magic City. “I love the vibe here. It’s a totally different feeling than New York, and I’m really happy to be here.” Photography Courtesy of WORLD RED EYE Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.