Giorgia Caovilla took inspiration from her own backyard for spring ’14.
The Italian designer and creative force behind O Jour sketched flowers from the garden in her country home and translated the art into her collection, even naming most styles after flowers.
“I picked names of flowers that I found, like the azalea, iris and ranunculus,” she said, noting she also introduced feathers to the line. “Feathers are very difficult to put on shoes, but in the end, I found a way to do it.”
A metallic shoe with the intricate designs of a gate mimics the entryway of Caovilla’s garden.
And as a nod to singer Taylor Swift, who is a fan of the brand, Caovilla adorned one nude heel with a guitar symbol running along its sides. The look is appropriately named the Taylor Flat.
Footwear News recently caught up with Caovilla in New York in her suite at The Plaza to discuss her spring collection and future plans for the brand.
1. It looks like your heels are getting higher this season. Are you taking a new direction for spring?
GC: I am responding to the needs of the market. The Russian market wanted higher heels and boots. I designed a really sexy tall boot because countries south of America also wanted that style. And I’m expanding into different categories this season. The Korean market needed thong sandals. I’ve never done a thong sandal before because there were too many out there, but for spring I am doing one.
2. What’s next for O Jour?
GC: I want one store. It’s in the works right now, but making it happen is hard. I want it to be in London or Venice, Italy. America is my strongest market, but the real estate here is just too expensive. I put most of my energy into the U.S. market because [customers there] understand me before everyone else. My business is really growing in the U.S., specifically in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
3. Do you have any fun plans this summer?
GC: Yes! I am planning a trip to Australia with my two small kids. I am hoping to go in August so that my husband, [Matteo Masiero], will be able to come with us, too. We celebrated our honeymoon in Australia, and this year we will be celebrating our 12th anniversary.
