Nine West shoelaborations

Nine West, a division of The Jones Group Inc, has announced the launch of a new platform, ‘Shoelaborations.’ The idea behind the initiative is to seek original, talented artists and allow them to collaborate on a rotating basis with Nine West

and beyond that bring the visions of these chosen trendsetters to consumers worldwide.

Starting this Spring/Summer 11 with French award winning designer, Sophie Theallet, whose collection will ‘tell the story of Sophie from Paris takes a trip to NYC’, which will include her take on summer pieces; a ballet flat, a double platform sandal, a raffia wedge, two satchels, and a charm bracelet and necklace. And all reflect Sophie’s feminine, Parisian sensibilities.

Designer Sophie Theallet said: “Partnering with a well-established footwear and accessories business such as Nine West has given me the opportunity to live out my life-long dream of designing on a larger scale. I was able to take one of my favorite patterns and create a collection that captures both my design aesthetic and the spirit of the Nine West brand.”

Nine West Creative Director Fred Allard, who will be working closely with each collaborator, said: “I love the couture creations Sophie Theallet is so well-known for, and am thrilled to be working alongside a fellow French designer to create this imaginative collection.

Theallet’s summer take will be followed by fashion man-of-the moment, Giles Deacon, who will produce a fall collection. His pieces will take a more cutting edge, technological direction. The pieces will be available globally – at the top Nine West retail stores and the Nine West Facebook Fan Shop. Theallet’s collection will retail at $79 for flats to $109 for platform sandals.

Stacy Lastrina, Chief Marketing Officer of The Jones Group, said: “Through Shoelaborations™ Nine West is lending over 33 years of expertise in footwear to up-and-coming designers, artists and musicians. This new platform will serve as a springboard for discovery and recognition of emerging talent, bringing a constant source of fresh product offerings to the marketplace.”

The Jones Group incorporates 35 brands across apparel, footwear, jeanswear, jewellery and handbags, including Rachel Roy, Jones New York, Brian Atwood.