“A European brand. An Indian Heart” goes the tagline for Pavers England, the footwear brand. That probably explains why their Spring Summer 2012 collection draws heavily from Indian influences. Stones, beads, zari work and floral patterns pep-up this range.
Utsav Seth, CEO and Managing Director, Pavers England says, “This is the first time our collection is being launched in Chennai ahead of the other cities. Chennai is an important market for us and such products have an aspirational value here.
So we make sure to stock-up on all our new arrivals. There are about 600 patterns to choose from.”
Strangely the fashion show at the store had models displaying just five pairs out of the entire collection — three for women and two for men. Barring one pair, a white sandal with yellow strings and a buckle, the others did not quite make a mark.
Since it's unfair to form an opinion based on what is displayed at the fashion show, a walk around the store may throw up interesting options depending on your taste. “Comfort is of utmost importance. All our shoes come with cushioned gel to provide that extra comfort when you walk,” says Seth as he asks me to slip my feet into a pair. And it gets all the points for comfort.
Most of the SS 12 collection comprises open designs. “It's summer and our feet need to breathe so we have open patterns. But there are a few closed varieties too,” says Seth. The colour palette includes bright summery shades such as light pink, white, beige, light green and yellow. The range includes sandals, slippers, party wear, toe posts, wedges, Cuban heels, stilettos, moccasins, brogues, deck shoes and open sandals.
