Balenciaga ready-to-wear, as much as I think is genius thanks to Nicolas Ghesquière, is admittedly not for every woman. The shoes Pierre Hardy designs for Balenciaga, however, are another story. My reaction when I see them in the showroom or on the most fashion-forward of celebrities is always the same: OMG. Simply put, they’re the shoe equivalent of a Damien Hirst work of art: cutting edge, modern, and in-your-face bold. To wit, take a look at the beige-and-black suede booties ($2,165) the lovely Jennifer Connelly–a former face of the French brand–wore to a taping of “The Late Show with David Letterman.” They’re straight off the Balenciaga Spring 2010 runway and add just the right amount of edge to her ensemble–a decidedly less flashy black knit turtleneck and red, turquoise and black pleated nappa leather skirt combination. The colorblock design coupled with a peep-toe and curved wooden heel definitely do look extraterrestrial, but the slight wooden platform and subtle vertical stripes keep the overall look down to earth. I could honestly watch these shoes go clop-clop down the street forever. Yes, they’re über-trendy. And long, thin legs are a must. But then again, ladies, Badgley Mischka this is not.
Image via Just Jared
