What's the most attractive heel height for a woman and why?
I think it’s up to the woman. Each woman has a different sense of what works for her. We’ll design and let women decide!
Are you more a fan of heels or flats? Why?
As a designer, I love sexy high heels, but I never want to dictate any woman’s style preference. I design wide collections for Nine West each season so that women can have their choice.
As a French native helming an American brand, what do you see as the difference between French and American women's style?
Today there’s not as much of a difference as there was years ago. I think today women in the U.S. dress up more than women in Europe, and it used to be the reverse. In the U.S., women go for the complete look—and I love it!
What are the key shoe styles for summer? For fall?
For summer I love the gladiator sandal and bright colors for accessories. This fall I am loving fringe!
What's your favorite time period for footwear and why?
I love the ’80s because of the extremes you saw in design. Montana, Gaultier, Madonna … everything was so crazy and extreme!
What are the three essential shoe styles a woman should have in her closet?
A ballet flat, a stiletto pump, and pair
of sneakers!
When getting dressed, which should come first, the shoes or the outfit?
I think the shoes and bag should be the final touches of an outfit. That way you can always change them out and be someone very different with the same outfit.
What's one style of footwear that will never go out of style and why?
A round-toe ballerina flat. It’s such an easy look and goes with everything, from day to night.
