Lanvin’s fall/winter 2015-16 runway shoes mix strict urban militarism with traditional Moroccan charm, taking classic riding boots and giving them luxurious appeal. Some decorated with tassels others with braided leather; the boots feature exotic skins and napa leather in brown, black and golden metallic.

For fall/winter 2015-16, subsequently the 125-year anniversary of the house, Alber Elbaz revisited his homeland, Morocco. Born in Casablanca, the designer studied in New York, mastered his craft and continued his career in Paris. Much like his life, the collection mixed the traditional dress of his homeland with the urbanized flare of his upbringing. The result was a beautiful collection that incorporated strict militaristic elements. Moroccan inspired detailing was represented in golden piping, knotted cord and hanging tassels. Trousers and flowing dresses were paired with tasseled riding boots and navy jackets.

The mid-length riding boots come in several forms, thick black soles or blocked heels with varying patchwork and finishes. The pair made of maroon, black and burgundy calfskin in block colors, emphasized with golden Moroccan inspired piping, was a particular favorite. Braided leather cord adorned the ankle of the riding boots that feature patchwork patterns in exotic skins such as python, tegu and ostrich.  Others were decorated with two braided leather tassels at the top.

For fall, pair the boots with a mid-length skirt or tuck trousers into them for a more military inspired look like the runway. Finish the look with an oversized knit sweater or a strict coat for a more structured finish.  

Yalda Zacca