Giuseppe Zanotti

It may have been autumnl/winter fashion week but that didn’t stop Giuseppe Zanotti from having fun with vibrant colors in his most recent collection. A well-rounded ensemble that covered the spectrum from bejeweled thigh-highs to Ugg-style booties, this season of Zanotti was playfully flirtatious while maintaining both cold-weather functionality and the designer’s iconic glamor. Titled “an ode to self-love, ” the collection was, in Zanotti’s words, “sexy and unapologetic. ” These were self-assured shoes designed for confident personalities: whether furry slippers or rhinestone studded heels, each piece had a certain aplomb.

From the women’s collection, it was the velvet “Bebe” heels that stood out most to Elysium. Offered in black, bright fuchsia, and ocean blue, these chunky heels had a certain substantiveness, in both texture and shape, perfect for a freezing winter night. Feminine, powerful-looking, and luxurious, they were the epitome of the assertive yet charming Zanotti aesthetic and would not look out of place on any red carpet. For those who prefer a little more glitter, the satin Bebe Strass was covered in rhinestones on both the platform and heel. Reminiscent of the late 80’s/early 90’s disco era, a common theme both musically and stylistically in Italy right now, these were the showstoppers drawing the highest concentration of photographers and influencers at the Zanotti event.

Continuing with the disco theme, the chunky patent leather Morgana boot, available in neon blue, cherry red, and black with the rhinestone-stutter Strass heel and platform, was the most dazzling cold-weather boot I saw all season. Jumping a decade ahead the Amaia chain, a furry stiletto boot in shocking pink, would have been the envy of Paris Hilton in her early 2000’s glory days.

The men’s collection was stellar all-around. While bold sneakers and sandals are normally the pinnacle of each Zanotti season, this year saw loafers and bold boots steal the show. Particularly memorable were the Alvaro stud loafers presented in blue, black, and bottle green velvet with a variety of iridescent studs. For staples, Zanotti presented a number of statement black and gold sneakers that I deem nightlife essentials this season.