A step in the right direction

Gianvito Rossi is not just a shoe designer, but a shoe architect. A renowned perfectionist, Gianvito Rossi’s heels are lovingly made in Italy from the softest leather, suede and calf hair. And it isn’t just their aesthetic appeal that has won over fans including Rosie Hungtington-Whiteley and Jennifer Lopez – a pair of Gianvito Rossi heels are unexpectedly comfortable, too.

Of course, while Gianvito Rossi may be best known for its cult pointed pumps, the brand creates equally desirable flats as well. Take the cool, practical and ultra-flattering black leather platform sandals. The chunky 80mm flatform – which recall a classic ’90s style – elongate the legs, while the whip-thin straps elegantly frame the foot. Wear them with summer midi dresses to lend an offbeat charm to demure silhouettes, or with cropped, tailored pants and a silk blouse for more formal occasions. Just be sure the ankle is visible to create a leg-lengthening effect.

When you consider the SS20 collection’s numerous outstanding styles, it’s easy to spot the other decades that inspired this season’s shoes. The wrapped gladiator style (available in black or beige) calls to mind the easy, carefree elegance of the 1970s, while the suede pumps (also in black or taupe) with a dainty ankle strap, sitting atop a 105mm pin-heel, are pure ’80s extravagance.

Gianvito Rossi stamps his signature brand of femininity and sex appeal across everything he creates, so his gladiator sandals are more bourgeois-style than bohemian, and made to be worn with tailored short suits for the office, or long, floaty dresses for vacations. Meanwhile, the stilettos ooze sex appeal, but are also refined and ladylike thanks to their ultra-fine ankle ties. Contrast their tactile suede texture against fluid silk dresses or butter-soft leather pants.

Rossi has been in the shoe business for a long time – and it shows. He grew up around shoes and first cut his teeth in his father Sergio’s factory. In 2006, he founded his eponymous empire, making his official debut at the 2007 Spring/Summer Milan Fashion Week.

Since then, Gianvito Rossi has gained a reputation for creating of-the-moment yet timeless silhouettes, with an aesthetic that is at once sensual and demure. The notes on the collection described it as containing “outstandingly feminine pieces for a contemporary woman with a strong, seductive side” – a portrayal we can all aspire and relate to.