We take a closer look at Saint Laurent's glittering 60s-inspired footwear
Who? Saint Laurent’s A/W14 girl is the definitive glittering rock ‘n’ roll rebel, top-to-toe in sequins, with an emphasis on the toes. Ever since Laura Schellenberg debuted them on the catwalk back in March, Hedi Slimane’s sparkling Mary Janes, ankle and thigh-high boots have been one of winter's most coveted accessories. Priced from £485, they come in galactic silver, gold, red and Barbie pink, adding a touch of magic to a classic 60s silhouette.
"The glittery shoe has always held a special place in fashion and pop culture"
What? From Dorothy’s ruby red sequin slippers to David Bowie’s glamrock boots, the glittery shoe has always held a shiny, special place in fashion and pop culture. It is a look that Slimane has been championing for a while; S/S14 collection was defined by a glittering kitten heel. “Everything began with the kitten heels,” he told AnOther Magazine, “I designed the collection from the bottom up.” The shoes echo an air of the original Yves, who carved his own niche in reaction to the 1960s youthquake, with metallic shifts, sequin skirts and his iconic Mondrian colour block mini-dress.
Why? Hedi Slimane is not the only designer this season to add a little glitter to his collection. Miu Miu offers glitter-coated heels, sunglasses and belts, while Vivienne Westwood rinsed her classic jersey dresses in subtle sparkles. Christian Louboutin has dazzling brogues while Tabitha Simmons plays with point-toe flats. Riding the 60s wave, Slimane dressed his sparkling shoes with fur coats, leopard print and cropped knits, toughened up with leather or doubled up with sequinned jackets and mini-dresses. Wear with the sullen stare of a Saint Laurent model to get the complete effect.
Words by Mhairi Graham
See the full range of Saint Laurent footwear here.
