Cool Hunting

With Louboutin's candy-apple red soles becoming as ubiquitous as Paris Hilton sightings, and Pierre Hardy's coutourtorous designs as wearable as a Jeff Koons sculpture, you know it's time for a new crop of shoes. Lesser-known labels that still pack a distinctive punch are a rare breed, but these six inspiring collections more than fit the bill. Among them are notables Miroike, Scorah Pattullo and Finsk. Berlin-based Miroike first gained notoriety for their innovatively draped leather boots; their knee-high gladiator sandal for spring is a standout and stunning enough for evening. (Pictured above right). In conjunction with former Alexander McQueen affiliate Rikke Hjelde, Johnnie Pattullo and Frances Scorah created a dynamic range of classic-looking shoes with a twist—from lace-up pumps to velvet platform sandals. Their buckle-down shoe booties in glittery star-printed suede and soft winter-white leather are currently setting our hearts aflutter. (Pictured below right.) Julia Lundsten of Finsk creates elegant, sculptural heels from Finnish birch-wood, with its rings and knots sometimes stained varying colors. She then tops them off with pieced leather uppers that bear dimensional leather squiggles and flaps. (Pictured below left.)Read more..