Blair Underwood is taking on a new role next spring — co-designer of a men’s footwear collection under the Q by Blair Underwood label.
The actor, director and producer admitted there was a learning curve when it came to creating his shoe brand, which is set to debut for spring ’18.
“Creating a shoe is not so difficult because you tap into your instincts, but a shoe everybody will respond to is challenging,” said Underwood, who teamed up with L.A.-based custom shoemaker Pasquale Fabrizio for the Italian-made footwear.
The collection, which includes styles ranging from high-top sneakers to monk straps, will retail for $500 to $800.
“Shoes transform you either positively or negatively,” added Underwood. “One can dress exquisitely from head to ankle, but the wrong shoes can utterly destroy a look and presentation.”
The dapper celebrity is no stranger to the fashion industry. Prior to footwear, he had a line of suits sold at clothing chain K&G Fashion Superstore, which he said helped prep him for this new venture.
“I don’t believe in just putting a name on something,” he said. “If I do it, I’m 200 percent involved.”
And while he’s accustomed to fine attire for red carpet appearances, in his downtime, Underwood prefers a more relaxed look. “I’ve always enjoyed being comfortable, and I like casual shoes,” he said. “But when I do get dressed up, I like doing it to the nines in a classy way.”
Here, he shares a few other personal anecdotes:
Go-to Timepiece:
“I don’t wear a watch; I tell time on my iPhone.”
Advice I Give My Daughter:
“Trust no one until they prove themselves to you.”
Actors I Wish I Could Work With:
“Sidney Poitier and Laurence Olivier.”
Music I Play While Driving:
“R&B, funk, rap and contemporary.”
Sport I Watch Most Often:
“Hands down, football. I’m a Washington Redskins fan.”
Best Spur-of-the-Moment Vacation:
“The Greek Isles. We had such a great time there.”
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