As a city, Milan exudes an air of effortless elegance unlike any other, and Milan Fashion Week was an extension of that stylish, uncomplicated vibe that left me wanting more. While there, aside from attending inspiring presentations, I took the opportunity to visit MICAM, the leading international footwear trade fair, and WHITE, an international showcase dedicated to all-around ready-to-wear collections. One of the key highlights was meeting the Founders of both established and emerging footwear brands who are beyond inspiring and storytellers through their designs. These creators have their fingers on the pulse of what’s trending, designing shoes for the women of today while placing an emphasis on sustainability, craftsmanship and innovation. Keep an eye out for these brands as well as some of the footwear trends for Spring/Summer 2025.
Parisy
Heels are a longtime favorite and Parisy should be on your radar because founder and creative director Francesca Parisi has launched her first collection that’s not just super glamorous, but also very comfortable. Each pair has been handcrafted with special padding in certain places to alleviate any discomfort and the height of the heels are equally as mindful. At the same time, Parisy is such a delight, embodying the brand’s mantra, “Female empowerment through seriously fabulous shoes.” It’s going to be exciting to see this brand develop and evolve with each new collection.
IG: @parisyofficial
Lolo Ballerina
Ballerinas are the epitome of effortless elegance and Belgium-based brand Lolo Ballerina offers exquisitely crafted ballerinas in stunning colorways. Believe me when I say that you’ll want every single colored pair to pirouette its way into your closet. “Lolo Ballerina shoes are the basis of a modern woman’s wardrobe and can be worn at any moment of the day at any age,” shares Lolo Ballerina Founder Barbara Giaclina. In addition to the timeless appeal, what makes this brand of ballerina shoes extra special is the contrasts between the gorgeous leather colors, textures and finishing touches. It truly is a “wonderful Belgian dancing love story.”
IG: @loloballerina
Brioni
Two seasons ago, Brioni brought their unparalleled expertise in the art of fine tailoring to their “La Donna” line. At Brioni’s intimate presentation of the women’s spring/summer 2025 collection unveiled during Milan Fashion Week, not only did the clothes stand out purely from their sheer elegance, highlighting the craftsmanship that is ingrained within the brand’s DNA, but the slip-on shoes should be on everyone’ bucket list. They are the most luxurious “pantoufles” that are made to step out into the world, from day to night, for that no frills yet fabulously assured attitude.
IG: @brioni_official
Felipe Fiallo
Sneakers are here to stay and they are making a statement like never before. Felipe Fiallo is certainly “redefining the sneaker narrative” with the launch of his namesake brand that combines science, nature, technology and innovation into each pair of futuristically-inspired sneakers. They are made on demand and feature the brand’s proprietary “Super Cushion System” outsole for full-day comfort. Fiallo’s presentation at Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana was captivating and the designer’s keen take on experimentation will no doubt create new trends.
IG: @felipe_fiallo
Maison Toufet
Loafers have this “je ne sais quoi vibe,” that scream “cool girl” and Parisian brand Maison Toufet has managed to capture that essence by offering a nice assortment of loafers, among other classics including the Mary Jane. Founder Marion Toufet comes from a family of shoemakers and she focuses on designing collections that are comfortable, timeless and made of high-quality materials but sold at the right price. The upcoming spring collection is très chic and the purple and green color tones are to swoon over.
IG: @maisontoufet
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