French Sole collaborates with Barbara Hulanicki

Footwear label French Sole is collaborating with Barbara Hulanicki, fashion designer and founder of iconic 1960s Biba brand on an exclusive collection launching later this month.

The Barbara Hulanicki for French Sole collection features nine designs featuring the designer’s favourite styles from the brand including the ‘Boardwalker’ sneaker, ‘Penelope’ point, and revamped ‘Gabi’ boot.

Commenting on the collaboration, Hulanicki said: “I have always loved French Sole. I was very excited to be asked to do a collection with Jane Winkworth. At last, I was able to design a black sole Boardwalker collection.

“I cannot wait for all the lace up boxer booties, and the frivolous skull embroideries and the return of velvet for shoes. Everything designed in basic background colours. The animal prints are always fun and jazz up the shoes. I am excited to wear them all myself, and that is a great sign!”

The range represents Hulanicki’s style with the aim of appealing to a broader age range, with something that could be worn day to night with a balance of comfort and style, stated French Sole. With key design features including embroidered skulls, chunky zip detailing and graphic prints.

Highlights include the ‘Broadwalk’ sneakers in velvet featuring an embroidered skull, as well as the ‘Penelope wedge’ that features a concealed wedge while still giving the illusion of being “flat”.

French Sole founder and designer, Jane Winkworth, added: “Our design collaboration and Barbara's enthusiasm for what I do and for French Sole has made this unique and stylish collection a joy to make.

“Barbara Hulanicki is the finest and most important fashion designer this country has seen and her influence in the sixties inspired a global change in women's fashion and I feel proud and honoured to have been able to work with her and to call her my friend.”

The Barbara Hulanicki for French Sole collection launches on December 21 in French Sole stores and online, with prices ranging from 175-195 pounds.

Images: courtesy of French Sole