Take your astrological sign off the charts and into reality by slipping into your new lucky stars: these zodiac-themed flats from the Charlotte Olympia Cosmic Collection.
Charlotte Olympia
During Paris Fashion Week in March, The Thread ventured to the 8th arrondissement, near Place Charles de Gaulle, to check out the pop-up showroom of London-based shoe brand Charlotte Olympia.
We were on a mission: to slip into shoes from the Cosmic Collection of designer Charlotte Dellal (pictured above). Handcrafted in Italy, this capsule line of suede flats celebrates the 12 star signs and features hand-painted Zodiac symbols embellished with Swarovski crystals.
The stars must have been aligned that day, because not only did we get to try on the collection, we gained an understanding of what a pair of shoes can reveal about a person! Each style comes with a one-of-a-kind horoscope book, so whether you’re a curious Aquarius or a larger-than-life Leo, there’s no guessing as to what puts pep in your step.
Go behind the seams of the Cosmic Collection, as Charlotte shares some insight on her journey through the Zodiac.
THE THREAD: When conceptualizing this collection, what interesting discoveries did you make about the 12 signs of the Zodiac and how they relate to shoes?
CHARLOTTE DELLAL: The Cosmic Collection is something I have toyed with for a long time. As with most of my collections, the Zodiac is a topic that easily adapts to a large dose of novelty and fun while still being quite classic. I decided to focus on individual jewel-like accessories, including details such as choosing the color of a shoe depending on the element of the star sign.
Four Elements: The color palette takes inspiration from earth, air, fire and water.
THE THREAD: Why do you think people enjoy following horoscopes and astrology?
CHARLOTTE: I think people are generally interested in all things mystical. Personally, I don’t live by astrology, but I am open to certain elements and enjoy recognizing my star sign’s traits in myself. I do love to know other people’s star signs too—I am quite good at guessing!
THE THREAD: Tell us about the creative process of making your horoscope accessories book. Did you learn something new about your own shoe style?
CHARLOTTE: I learned a lot about the different characteristics of each sign. In terms of my own sign, Geminis are apparently youthful and witty, which is something I try to apply to my work. I enjoy a good giggle! I do relate to the nervousness and indecisiveness: I am often in two minds about something!
THE THREAD: You once said you “don’t really think in flats.” What was the turning point that made you realize a woman’s closet needs flats too?
CHARLOTTE: I’ve always worn heels and flats but mostly heels! As my motto goes: “The higher the heel, the better you feel!” Flats can be feminine and fun–two adjectives that define the very essence of Charlotte Olympia. For example, the ‘Kitty’ is a classic and it is featured in the Encore Collection. It is one of our bestsellers and is the perfect run-around shoe. Plus, what kind of female designer would I be if I only designed heels?!
What do your shoes say about you? Find the answers with the Cosmic Collection.
−Qianna Smith
Photos by Ford Leland
Spring your feet into action and slip into the ‘Serena’ Sandal by Charlotte Olympia! This ladylike platform sandal is inspired by the British designer’s passion for ’40s and ’50s glamour. If you live by the motto “the higher the heel, the better you feel,” then this shoe will make each step feel like you’re walking on cloud nine.
Check out our Spring Awakening Lookbook for some warm and liberating style ideas.
What a stunner! I am one hundred percent in love with Irina’s style. There’s a bit of edge, a touch of lady, and even a little sport going on in her look.
Irina says she can’t wait for warmer weather and has been working her spring dresses into her wardrobe as much as she can. I am inspired to do the same, once I get home!
xo, Crystal
Shop similar styles:
Strappy Sandals | Designer Trend: All White | Colorful Handbags
Shop our Editors’ Picks to re-create this look:
Charlotte Olympia Sandal | 3.1 Phillip Lim Layered Dress | Burberry Leather Clutch
Kristina is back, this time in Paris! The Swedish blogger (KAYTURE) we caught up with in NYC said her Paris Fashion Week show schedule was keeping her super busy. Kristina causes a stir wherever she goes–as you can tell by the cameras crowded around her.
Her mod dress is hitting all the right fall season notes: leather accents, oxblood and sporty knit.
xo, Crystal
*We offer Céline handbags in selected stores. For assistance, please contact a Designer Specialist at 1-877-543-7463.
Shop similar styles:
Statement Collar Necklaces | Knit Sheath Dresses | Black Platform Booties
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Tom Binns Multistrand Necklace
10 Crosby Derek Lam Wool Dress
Charlotte Olympia Ankle Bootie
Nell’s sartorial know-how is far beyond her years. I was surprised to hear that she is an English Lit student and only at Fashion Week for a little study break. Her sleek separates and bold pops of color are eye catching and just a little bit edgy.
For fall, Nell says that she’s looking for structured shoulders, leather and lace. I don’t remember college looking so chic!
xo, Crystal
Shop similar styles:
Color-Pop Bags | Statement Jackets | Colorful Pumps
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COACH Leather Carryall
Trouvé Cascade Leather Jacket
Charlotte Olympia Rainbow Pump
There’s no need to go looking for the end here: These Charlotte Olympia platform pumps are your rainbow and your pot of gold.
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