NICK OF TIME
An extravagant shoe designer opens his first U.S. boutique
Between subway stairs and cobblestone streets, wearing heels in this city can be a dangerous undertaking. Nevertheless, we’ve just fallen for some serious stilettos.
British designer Nicholas Kirkwood, who’s known for his trippy prints and laser-cut leather heels, just brought his sky-high shoes to our side of the pond. His first ever U.S. boutique occupies a massive 1,500-square-foot space in the Meatpacking District, where high--and we mean high--heels and platforms are appropriately displayed on pedestals like works of art.
Taking a seat on a plush gray banquette, we began trying on the goods: For a twist on the standard black heel, we liked the satin pump with pearl details ($995) and the ornate lace-up bootie ($1,295). But it was Kirkwood’s current collection that really took our breath away: Inspired by a recent trip to Bali, his classic pumps ($695) are awash in bright colored prints, while strappy sandals are enhanced with exotic animal skins ($1,115).
The vacation continues outside, where a lush backyard garden (complete with a hammock) provides a relaxing spot to take a load off. And boy did we need it--deciding which over-the-top pair to invest in was no easy feet.
Nicholas Kirkwood, 807 Washington St. (at Gansevoort St.); 646-559-5239 or nicholaskirkwood.com
