I spent plenty of time slobbering all over the Lanvin Plexi Wedges back when they walked the brand’s Paris runway last fall, and now that versions of the design are starting to show up for retail pre-order, it’s only fitting that these exceptional shoes get a closer look and a few more words of praise.
Most high-end luxury brands never really embrace industrialism. They might give it a nod here and there, but going whole-hog is often seen as too risky or taste-specific for cash-cow product categories like shoes, which need to sell well in large department stores. Not only did Lanvin go in that direction without fear or apology here, but it did so beautifully. The plexi panels get points for being interesting and thought-provoking, but they’re also entirely functional, adding a bit of support to a design with a very thin, very high heel.
In the hands of less capable or adventurous designers, the industrial emphasis might have stopped there, but Lanvin added in a heel made of metal framing and some raised screw heads to emphasize the mood of the shoe. From the front, you have a totally wearable black sandal. From the back or side, Lanvin gives you something much more special.
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