Our guide to four of Italy’s best shoe designers.
Posted on
Italy is known for its production of high-quality leather goods, making the country major pioneers in the shoe industry. As Italian shoemakers continue to leave their mark on the world, shopping for Italian shoes is an experience you cannot miss out on.
Here are four of Italy’s best shoe designers for you to seek during your visit:
Alberto Fermani
Alberto Fermani The Shoemaker originated in 1960, in a small workshop based in Marche. Alberto began his first collection by hand-making all of his designs, wanting to give an authentic, Italian feel to his designs that were focused on traditional styles and natural leathers. To date the company still make hand-finished footwear across the board of his collections. Alberto Fermani is most commonly recognised for his selection of women’s boots yet creates a wide range of popular styles from platforms to peep toes. His designs are smart, stylish and elegant and are always designed with comfort in mind.
Gucci
Gucci was founded by Guccio Gucci in 1921, originating in Florence and fast became the world’s most famous Italian brand. Although using industrial methods of production, Gucci retained his inspiration of traditional fabrication choosing Florentine leather crafts for the finish of his shoes.
Gucci ranges provide an array of exquisite shoes aiming to capture men, women and children alike. Gucci designs aim to stray away from conventional styles favouring experimental aesthetics with a blend of materials, not just the usual leather. Nowadays Gucci is promoting eco-friendly collections in a bid to back environmentalists, with their biodegradable ballerina shoes becoming a top seller.
Sergio Rossi
Sergio Rossi was founded in 1966 and is currently one of the world’s top specialist shoe designers for women. Sergio began selling his handmade designs in boutiques in the 1960s but nearly a decade later Sergio paired with fashionista Gianni Versace, producing shoes for high-end fashion houses such as Dolce and Gabbana. Sergio’s collections combine sleek, feminine shapes with the finest materials aiming for a refined, soothing feel for women everywhere.
Prada
Prada became associated with the shoe industry in 1983. Miuccia Prada’s designs are all about experimentation and are still going strong to date. Opting for plastic and nylon shoes as well as the traditional leather normally used, Prada became a worthy brand for shoes lovers everywhere.
All of the above shoes, and many, many more, can still be purchased in Italy with Florence and Sicily being two of Italy’s best destinations for designer shoes at fantastic prices. So skip on over to our website, book an amazing holiday in Sicily and take up the chance to meet your sole-mate.
Image: Morn the Gorn available via Creative Commons