(Designer Stuart Weitzman)
On Tuesday, I was given the opportunity to interview designer Stuart Weitzman! A Haverhill native, Mr. Weitzman is in town to celebrate the opening of his latest boutique at Chestnut Hill Mall.
He is iconic in the world of design, and long before I'd even attempted to pronounce Blahnik, Stuart Weitzman was the name I admired. As an adult, his beautiful shoes have played a huge part in the evolution of my personal style. In March, when my Nana, a lifelong lover of shoes, passed away I treated myself to a pair of Weitzmans for her services. Some people may have felt them an odd choice for a wake and funeral but I knew Nana would have loved them and they gave me a lot of strength during a particularly difficult time. So, I was beyond excited (and honored!) when I was invited to interview Stuart himself!
The Bostonista: Your father owned a shoe factory here in Massachusetts while you were growing up. Did you always know that you wanted to be a shoe designer?
Stuart Weitzman: I had originally planned to conquer Wall Street right out of school, but unexpected circumstances led me to join the family business to help out and I have never looked back.
The Bostonista: I know your designs are now produced in Spain but do you ever think of bringing the production back to the Boston area?
Stuart Weitzman: Ever since a group of shoes made in Elda caught my eye with their exceptional quality and workmanship… it became my home.
(Natalia Vodianova in Stuart Weitzman Fall 2012)
The Bostonista: The Fall 2012 campaign is so beautiful! Why did you choose model Natalia Vodianova to be the face of Stuart Weitzman?
Stuart Weitzman: Natalia was chosen for our ad campaign because her personality traits mirror the brand perfectly: undeniable sex appeal yet approachable girl next door.
The Bostonista: How do you continue to find inspiration and, yet, never repeat yourself?
Stuart Weitzman: I am inspired by everything around me …. I believe creativity can be sparked by the simplest details. Some forms of past, present and future inspiration for me have been things I have seen on the sidewalks of New York City, the Spanish countryside, a favorite old movie and the changes in nature within each seasons.
The Bostonista: Is there a woman you consider your muse?
Stuart Weitzman: When I create the various ideas that make up a collection, I am thinking of the many diverse personalities of women – the fashionista, celebrity, career woman, the ultra chic and bride. By embracing each one individually, I have been able to satisfy the desires of each.
(IRONYDOME by Stuart Weitzman)
The Bostonista: Why did you begin designing handbags? How does that differ from the process of designing shoes?
Stuart Weitzman: Handbags have always been a natural extension for me…I like to incorporate great design with functionality within the collection. Shoes are all about great style and comfort, but handbags are about style and functionality.
(Dagger by Stuart Weitzman)
The Bostonista: What can we expect from your Spring 2013 collection?
Stuart Weitzman: Now, you will just have to wait to see…
Make sure to check out the brand new Stuart Weitzman store at Chestnut Hill Mall! It's open now and I, for one, can't wait to go and try on all those amazing shoes!
Thank you so much to every one at Stuart Weitzman, especially Carter Boardman and Mr. Weitzman himself!
