K-Swiss
K-Swiss

NEW YORK, Mar 24, 2008 / FW/ — If you were wondering why there were very few stilettos at the Yigal Azrouel catwalk show last month in New York during the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, it’s because the designer was also launching the Fall 2008 collection for K-Swiss, marking the second collaboration between the designer and the globally renowned footwear brand.

Known for his sexy downtown looks, Azrouel added California cool to the silhouette with slouchy pants and layered ruffled skirts giving an aura of a casual look without forgoing style. It is as if the New York-based designer also incorporated K-Swiss’ new tagline ‘Keep it Pure’ in his Fall 2008 collection.

“Keep it Pure,” best describes the look and feel of the sneakers designed by Azrouel. Jennifer Weiderman, VP of Marketing at K-Swiss noted. Yigal’s use of materials and knack for designing the collection to be laid back, cool and casual is the perfect compliment to his sportswear collection.”

“The focus of my collection for K-Swiss is bringing design quality to sportswear with the use of fabrics that are not normally used for sneakers,” explained Azrouel.

“I used buffalo check wool for one hi-top, and calf suede, cracked leather and washed cotton canvas for other styles. For the lining, I used heavy twill tape while a lighter version was incorporated in piping and binding.”

“I wanted to re-create the sneaker I wore and loved when I was younger, so they have a retro vintage feel to them. The primary color blocking, the distressed washed feel and the subtle, tonal topstitching all evoke that mood and nostalgia,” the designer added.

The collection, which offers six styles each for men and women, will be available at Yigal Azrouel’s New York City boutique and online at www.k-swiss.com this fall.

[MARGUERITE SEBASTIEN]

Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week