New Style Idea

Since its new creative director Daniel Lee showed marshmallow-like quilted pumps on the runway in 2018, Bottega Veneta has been the brand when it comes to “It” shoes — with the sales and searches to prove it.

Similarly, new creative director Matthew Williams just revealed a debut collection for Givenchy that is full of quirky, eye-catching footwear (and handbags). Do they have the potential to create a new season of “It” shoes in the luxury space?

Williams’s debut spring ’21 collection for the French fashion house was not one of the IRL runway shows that have been occurring during Paris Fashion Week in recent days. Givenchy instead released only a simple look book shot on white background, comprised of 54 looks.

There was just as much — if not more — to digest from the simple presentation. It was a whole new look for Givenchy, whose previous creative director Clare Waight Keller focused on tailoring for the grown-up woman. Instead, Williams infused the collection with some of the edge of his cult-followed Alyx line, bringing back bit of the punk-rock bite that former creative director Riccardo Tisci has given the brand from 2005 to 2017.

Below, a look at five new shoe styles from Williams’s new Givenchy that could pick up speed — and perhaps even become next season’s “It” shoe:

The three-toe-loop sandal

This is the shoe that’s already getting the buzz. There has been a decided fascination (bordering foot fetish?) with big-toe sandals lately, and this sandal is sure to pick up it. Minimalistic toe rings separate digits into three sections in front, while a cantilevered and curved talon- or tail-like appendage finishes off the heel. It’s slightly creepy and everyone is wondering:  How does it feel?

The piercing pump

Taking a page from Williams’s 1017 Alyx 9 bondage-like accoutrements, Givenchy’s new Mary Jane pump is pierced all over with silver metal rings and finished with heavy chain link strap over the top. It’s full-on ladylike punk.

The snake-like gladiator sandal

Even more proof that the gladiator sandal may make a comeback for spring ’21. Givenchy’s versions has an abstract snake-like feel with some geometric touches — and that creepy talon heel again.

The platform shower slide

Williams didn’t hedge all of his bets on the heel for next season — a good idea given the uncertainty of the pandemic. The designer also incorporated a series of rubber shower shoes in the collection. Most had a sporty flatform look, while a few had an even higher platform.

The all-out comfort clog

Part Croc, part traditional clog (and maybe part sneaker?), the last shoe style in Givenchy’s spring ’21 collection is an unabashed comfort shoe that may just take the “ugly” shoe trend to a whole new level next year.