Photo: Instagram/@aminamuaddi
On the second evening of Paris Fashion Week, Alexandre Vauthier presented his Spring 2016 Couture collection, with models strutting down the runway in crystal-laden, body-skimming cutout gowns; tailored, slim-cut cargo pants featuring oversized pockets; and a red, patent-leather jumpsuit. The fierce lineup was styled with his latest shoe collection of thigh-high, lace-up boots and crystal-studded sandals, designed in collaboration with Oscar Tiye Creative Director Amina Muaddi
Embodying the same sultry aesthetic that marks Vauthier’s couture and ready-to-wear designs, the shoe collection consisted of Swarovski crystal encrusted T-strap sandals; feather-embellished cutout, lace-up heels; and jaw-dropping gladiator lace-up boots.
Of Jordanian and Romanian descent, Amina Muaddi is the talented Milan-based designer and founder behind the luxury shoe brand Oscar Tiye. Known for her signature Malikah silhouette—a leather ankle strap sandal featuring wing motifs along the sides—the designer has garnered celebrity appeal since launching her label in 2013. Her heels have been spotted on model Heidi Klum, actress Zoe Saldana, and singer Hailee Steinfeld to name a few.
In an interview with Style.com/Arabia’s Caterina Minthe, Muaddi stated that her shoe designs draw inspiration from the Middle East, “I love the contrast between purity and mystery. I think that this is symbolic of many Arab women.” She also mentioned, “I wanted to play on that. Many of my shoes are inspired by the Arab world and carry a very strong, cultural interpretation.” Regional references are echoed in the Cassandra shoe, which is inspired by the Great Mosque in Abu Dhabi; the Jamila that recalls Henna designs; and finally, the Malikah, inspired by a Scarab beetle taking flight.
