DESIGN + INNOVATION + FASHION=UNITED NUDE

Stealth Bag in Pink

Yesterday, I took a small 'field trip' to a tiny high-end women's footwear boutique on the lower east side of Manhattan.  Now, this brand is not just ANY typical high-end shoe line...allow me to introduce to you a brand that represents iconic styles that merges concepts inspired from furniture design, mathematical objects, airplanes and of course, fashion....United Nude.  A product created by a duo collective between architect Rem D Koolhas and shoemaker Galahad JD Clark.  I fell upon this brand surfing the Internet looking for new and intriguing brands to write about - and that's just what I discovered!

S/S 09 Möbius sandal in metallic gold**

United Nude launched six years ago in 2003 with the Möbius, the conceptual design that put them on the map as innovators in shoe design.  It's conceptualized from the 'Möbius band', a mathematical object that looks like a twisted loop and the transformation of the frame from the infamous 'Barcelona chair', designed by Ludwig Mies der Rohe.   I tried this particular style (shown left) which will be available in new colors for S/S 09 and although, they are comfortable, it didn't flatter MY foot. But that's okay because this brand has so many more styles to choose from that does make my foot and legs look like a pillar for wearable art.

  The sexy fit Six Strap HI sandal

I was fortunate enough to get the latest of what's to come for the spring/summer through the company that handles their PR and there were a few styles I thought were pretty DOPE!...lol.  The first ones I will share with you are pretty basic but the heel will make you wonder, "...how the hell can one stand in these?..."  I mean this shoe is a piece of architecture!

 Eamz pump in patent black

The entire United Nude footwear line are made with comfort in mind and these not only were comfy but,  they complement my foot beautifully and simply.  You feel as if you are walking on air and the Charles and Ray Eames inspired heel is as sturdy as the base of the chair you're sitting in...lol!  If you are familiar with furniture design this shoe was designed with the infamous Eames chair in mind.  The Eamz collection also has a Mary-Jane, boots, and a lace-up shoe available.

Now, while I was trying on particular styles that I'm intrigued by, I asked the sales girl questions about the materials of some of the shoes.  Christy, told me that the Mono Series (which are another style I am pretty fond of) are made of EVA and leather.  Now, I already did my research on this and I like to test sales people's product knowledge.  I'm in sales and know the importance of product knowledge.  So, I ask her if EVA stands for anything or what it is and she told me that it's a recycled plastic which is a very durable and lightweight rubber - which is partially correct but what does it stand for?....guess, that's not that important because she forgot...wonkwonk.  It's cool, though but, I thought that was a valid question for someone who wouldn't be familiar.  For those of you who aren't familiar, think of Crocs, which actually are made from "croslite" made using Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA).  Yeah, I know this is not biochemistry class but it's good to know....but since it's not important, all you need to know is the Mono Series are fun, stupid comfy, cute, and stupid comfy...lol!  See below the many colors available:

  S/S 09 Mono Janes **

United Nude is fashion taken to the next level and I personally think if you are into the sporty, classic, or funky look this brand has something for everyone.  Perfect for women on their feet all the time.  Versatility, function, art and fashion wrapped up in a shoe, boot or sandal!  Check out the Porn Toe sandal (below)which I think the name is so fitting and do me a favor and go to their website for ALL the styles available.  

**All sandals and shoes shown will be available soon online and in-store for the spring/summer. All Prices Upon Request, United Nude, +1.212.274.9010, www.unitednude.com