This shoe encompasses everything Maison Martin Margiela stands for: directional, inventive, downright quirky, and kind of a mind-bender. Another graffiti-print pump, you say? Well, one with pretty rough and realistic texture. That’s because this isn’t just an effect; this is real cement applied onto leather. I’m not sure I’d like to wear a block of cement on my feet (not that I’ve ever considered it until this minute). In fact, I am already feeling the pain, so no, thank you.
But conceptually – which accounts for a lot of what MMM is best at – this is a great way to differentiate from your typical basically neutral shoe. The splash of spray-painted color really doesn’t get in the way since it’s at the heel; it’s just enough to add some spice. Bringing new meaning to the term “streetwise,” this pump would fit right in on the dark floors of the Mudd Club with the likes of Basquiat and young Madonna, circa 1982. It does boast one major plus: you are well-protected from stubbing your toe. And if any lunatic tries to mess with you, a surprisingly hard kick to the shin (or worse) ought to set him straight. At Barneys New York for $995.
