Nov 17: Standard slingbacks, conventional pumps, and basic boots are not Bruno Frisoni’s style. His bold, head-turning designs reflect the designer’s knack for drawing inspiration from unexpected places. Japanese artist Takashi Murukami’s film Dolls, with its images of a heroine tied by rope to her lover, gave Frisoni the idea for the chic sandals whose straps have been replaced by twisted and plaited grosgrain ribbons. The work of Art Deco–era artist and illustrator Erte gave rise to the graphic silver cutouts on fabulous flat black leather boots. And what of the selection of striking after-dark shoes, sculpted with bands of gold that clasp the sides of the foot or cup the heel? They were inspired by cowboy spurs, which Frisoni calls “jewelry for the feet.” His medley of sandals, titled Ring My Belle, continues the bijoux theme with large silver rings hooked through straps to stunning effect.
Frisoni delights in the unusual, but that doesn’t mean his shoes are awkward or difficult to wear. His square-toe pumps in pea green, black patent, or a pink “atomic” print (a pattern of abstract Japanese blossoms) are proof of that. Whether sweet and neat with crisp knots at the toe or fantasy and fun with a pom-pom on the heel, they’re eye candy that satisfies. Bureau Report