First Look: Charlotte Olympia's Exclusive Collection For THE OUTNET
The shoe designer talks about her collaboration with THE OUTNET, her design philosophy, and what she loves to do outside of work
When it comes to elegant, timeless designs with a touch of quirky fun, no one does it better than shoe designer Charlotte Dellal. Her label, Charlotte Olympia, has enchanted the fashion world with its whimsicality and now, the designer has partnered with THE OUTNET for an exclusive collaboration.
“I am excited to be partnering with THE OUTNET! Together we’re celebrating the pure happiness new shoes bring to all of our fashion-conscious customers.” Charlotte Dellal said.
Comprising of six shoe styles, the collection includes the label’s signature ‘Charlotte’s Web’ motif and iconic Kitty flats, as well as platform stilettos. The rich jewel-toned velvet loafers and laser-cut Octavia heels in soft pink and grey suede evoke the glamour of a bygone era, and are handcrafted in Italy from the finest materials, completed with Charlotte’s classic gold spider’s web on its sole.
Here, the shoe designer talks about her collaboration with THE OUTNET, her design philosophy, and what she loves to do outside of work.
Photo: Courtesy of THE OUTNET/Alexander Leese
charlotte olympia the outnet
Tell us about the styles in THE OUTNET’s exclusive collection (Dolly, Eugenie, Octavia, Octavia
single sole, Kitty, Web). Do you have a favourite?
Most of the designs feature in my Encore collection of classic signature shoes that I believe have a place in every woman’s wardrobe. Eugenie is a more recent style and a personal favourite—it's bold but still feminine.
You’ve said before that you love the naming of the shoes and take it seriously. How did you come up with the names for each of these styles?
The names of the designs are usually very much linked to the inspiration behind the collection and have to suit the silhouette and design.
And how do you come up with the names more generally?
Whenever I design a collection it’s important for it to have a mood and a story so there is always special attention to detail. I particularly enjoy naming my products—not only does it add personality, but it also gives an insight into the inspiration. There are also a few named after favourite pin-ups and movie stars.
Where did your love of fashion, corsets, and old Hollywood glamour come from?
Since I was a child I watched old black and white movies with my mother. It was the glamour from the silver screen that introduced me to fashion from a bygone time. I love old Hollywood and pin- ups from the 1940s and 50s, which plays a huge part on my own personal style, design aesthetic and brand sensibility.
Growing up, did you always want to be a designer?
I wanted to be designer from a young age, but only decided to specialise in footwear during my foundation course at the London College of Fashion when one of my tutors commented on my emphasis on accessories when I designed. I then went on to do a BA at Cordwainers where I learnt the craft of shoemaking and started my own brand soon after I graduated.
What has been a defining moment in your career so far?
I have ten stores worldwide; I love being able to create an environment to showcase my collections. One of my proudest moments was opening my first store on Maddox Street. I also recently opened my second store in London on Brompton Cross, Chelsea.
Do you have a favourite historic movie and actress?
Yes, I love the movie Gilda and Rita Hayworth is one of my favourite actresses.
What’s the hardest part of your job?
I love my job—I have always wanted to design and create so I'm lucky to have turned my passion into a business.
What do you love to do outside work?
To spend time with my family and friends. I love to host and regularly have family and friends over for dinner parties or Sunday lunch.
The Charlotte Olympia x THE OUTNET collaboration will be available exclusively at www.theoutnet.com from 17 March 2016. Prices range from £220-£350.
By Pakkee