With summer just around the corner, Belgian designer Dries Van Noten has debuted a pair of brocade sandals that draw inspiration from traditional Geisha attire. Despite the fact that the sandals draw on the prints and fabrics of an ancient culture, the pattern used to create the shoes is very much in line with the rise of brocade prints.
Dries Van Noten's brocade sandals are a beautiful pair of shoes inspired by the traditional wooden platforms -- called Okobo -- worn by Geisha in training. Van Noten's version is an elevated take on the traditional shoes, with a glossy black sole and a green and gold cherry blossom print. The result is pair of sandals that are delicate, yet still deliver a commanding sound that mimics "the click-clacking of feet against the floors of teahouses and kabuki theatres."
Springtime Brocade Sandals
Dries Van Noten's New Sandals are Inspired by Geisha Footwear
Trend Themes
1. Brocade Prints - The rise of brocade prints presents an opportunity for fashion designers to incorporate traditional patterns into contemporary designs.
2. Geisha-inspired Footwear - Designers can explore the rich cultural heritage of Geisha attire to create innovative and unique footwear designs.
3. Elevated Traditional Shoes - There is a market for elevated versions of traditional footwear, offering a modern twist on classic designs.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Design - Fashion designers can incorporate brocade prints and draw inspiration from Geisha attire to create innovative footwear.
2. Cultural Heritage Preservation - The production of Geisha-inspired footwear can contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural traditions.
3. Luxury Footwear - The demand for elevated versions of traditional shoes presents an opportunity for luxury footwear brands to cater to a niche market.