What girl doesn't love a pair of 'bang bang' shoes? You know; the kind that make you feel like you're Queen of the world.
Londoner Aruna Seth has been designing 'It' shoes for celebrities and women with exceptional taste for several years. Her luxury embellished footwear has earned her the title of the 'pretty' shoe designer. I've been a huge fan since discovering her work at the start of 2009, so it was quite an honour to chat with Ms. Seth and discuss her love affair with shoes, her plans for 2010 and why she's inspired by the city.
When did your love affair with shoes begin?
My love for shoes began at a very early age. I was surrounded by shoes day in, day out. I remember doing work experience with my dad and it was fascinating to go into the factory and sample rooms where I'd see the drawings right through to the actual production.
When you're going through the design process who is your muse?
I have to say that I base my shoe designs on what I personally love, I have to passionately adore the shoe I'm designing.
Your ballerina shoe Rochelle was picked up by stylist to the cast of Gossip Girls - Eric Daman. How exciting was that for you?
It was very, very exciting - a big highlight for me. Actress Goldie Hawn recently wore my Cinderella shoe to the Nine premier in New York and that was an amazing feeling.
How does the city of London help inspire you?
London is a very diverse place with different cultures, I love that fact that you can experience totally different things on any given day. I think that's why a lot of designers reside in London actually. A good example of the way cultures intertwine is my background; my mother is Jamaican and my father Indian, so it's definitely the merger of all experiences, all together that influence and inspire my work.
If you had to pick one design from your collection, which would you choose as your favourite?
It would have to be the one that I wear the most - the Cerise; it's a wedge covered in Swarovski crystal. I love it because it's a real head turner; if I wear it any where in the world, no matter where I am, I'll be paid a compliment. But even though they have wow factor, they are still wearable; that's what I aim for; I want my shoes to have elegance, wow factor and remain comfortable.
2009 was a major success for you, what's next for Aruna Seth?
The first Aruna Seth boutique will be opening in Chelsea just in time for the Summer and we'll be busy with award ceremonies such as the Golden Globes and the Oscars. The shoes will be stocked by Browns and also in a US department store very soon.
Web: www.arunaseth.com
Become a fan of Aruna Seth on facebook
Web: www.arunaseth.com
Become a fan of Aruna Seth on facebook
Fab shoes.
oooh, I love finding new fab shoe designers, especially Europe-based, now that I'm no longer in NY and the shipping/import taxes from the US are KILLER!!
These are fantastic, Thank you.