MILAN, Mar 18, 2006/ FW/ --- Functionality and spontaneity are the distinctive qualities of the Gianfranco Ferré Shoe collection for Fall 2006, wherein a softened interpretation of everyday footwear becomes a fashion statement.

Featuring lower heels and more subdued styling, it is in keeping with a rationale of rigorous consistency making constant references to the codes of elegance, uniqueness and excellence, the same code that distinguishes the clothing designed by Gianfranco Ferré.

This stylistic coherence is particularly evident in the precise formal scansion of the various models: the range of conformations is intentionally limited, each one of them, however, has been rendered original by the materic interpretations, not to mention the scrupulous attention to the details.

Women’s shoes

The shapes turn out to be rather rounded, or slightly squared in the case of the loafers. There are not exaggeratedly pointed toes, while the heels are solid and important, although they do become narrower for the evening, but without ever getting too slender. Platforms are a recurrent element, but far from universal.

The materic horizon includes various kinds of calfskin - shiny, opaque or granular, with a sporty flair – along with luxurious leathers, from lizard skin to crocodile, from textural effects created by means of micro-patterns or special jacquard work, to satin and velvet.

An absolute must for this collection is the use of a mix of different materials in the same shoe, generating effects of great originality and appeal.

The range of models includes a singular glamorous version of the daytime loafer, feminized by styling that recalls more elegant pumps. Even the flats reveal an unprecedented panache thanks to the sophisticated materials with which they have been fashioned.

The boots have a sporty conformation and have been enhanced by trim in fox, which is also used at times as a lining material.

The color palette ranges from the usual winter hues, such as black and coffee-brown, to shades of ivory and casha, including dense splashes of green, burgundy and blue. And sometimes the mixes of materials also involve an enchanting blend of colors.

When eventide descends, however, it’s time for real color, as orange, red, emerald green and rust tinge sandals in satin with dainty straps that either cover the foot or leave it practically nude, adorned with jewel applications and illuminated by heels encrusted with sparkling rhinestones.

Men’s shoes

In a context of balanced forms with rather squared toes or, at least, ones that are certainly not excessively pointed, the plus of uniqueness and originality is provided primarily by the refined craftsmanship of the finished work and the details, first and foremost: buckles and tassels.

The classic, laced and loafer models coexist harmoniously with ankle boots, higher boots and sneakers. The soles, generally thin and discreet, take on greater thickness and importance in the sportier models, serving as an element of both decoration and functionality at the same time.

Calfskin is a winning player here in all its various manifestations, smooth and natural, embossed to resemble crocodile and with a rich full grain, even being featured in patent treatments for the slick evening models.

The usual colors – black and coffee-brown – have made way for livelier, more unusual tones: orange, khaki, dark green, warm brown and burgundy.

Gianfranco Ferré Shoes Collection

Gianfranco Ferré Shoes Collection

Gianfranco Ferré Shoes Collection

Gianfranco Ferré Shoes Collection

Gianfranco Ferré Shoes Collection

Gianfranco Ferré Shoes Collection