Nicholas Kirkwood's new shoes of love

This week we got a sneak preview of his a/w 08 collection and now dreaming about which pair to buy first.

The British shoe designer who studied Fine Art at Central St. Martins before shoe making at the prestigious Cordwainers college, has produced a perfect collection of statement shoes which combines elements of architectural design, sex appeal and fashion forward edge.

The clever thing about Kirkwood is he has managed to combine so many contradictions in one collection; black leather with bright purple or blue heels, retro court shoes seem totally modern by design and structure; feminine materials like silk or pearls have a serious, masculine edge, as well as being unbelievably sexy - all perfect for next season's power dressing trend and the return of the woman in control, after summer's girlie fashion.

'I have always been interested in structure, in very linear shapes'. Kirkwood said last season of his debut collection, and it's clear that remains his inspiration with this collection.

This is only the second official season for his eponymous label, which he first started at home, but designers and stores have been quick to notice him. Last season his designs were seen at such diverse shows as Tommy Hillfiger and Belstaff and in the UK have been snapped up by the expert buyers at exclusive stores like Browns, Harvey Nichols, Dover Street Market and Harrods.

'Whether it's furniture or accessories or whatever, I love things to have practicality to them,' says Kirkwood. And there's certainly one thing practical about this collection - we're going to be able to wear his shoes with everything come September!

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By Laurelle Gi