A former buyer and strategist for Net-a-Porter, Sass & Bide and Figgins Group has ventured out on her own to compete in the high-end footwear market.
Melbourne-based designer Annie Abbott has launched a bespoke women's shoe line called Habbot, with the aim of providing premium Italian-made styles at reasonable cost.
“There are so many apparel brands that sit in that [mid to high] price bracket – Camilla and Marc, Ginger and Smart and of course Scanlan and Theodore,” she said. “But there is not much in that price bracket for footwear.”
Abbott has created her first collection for winter 2011, which will be sold on the Habbot e-commerce site from February 2011. She intends to obtain independent boutique stockists commencing summer 2011.
“I am keen to get a mixture of some select boutiques that do apparel, accessories and footwear as I see the most potential there,” she said.
“However, I had a preliminary chat to one of the majors and they are keen to see what I do for summer.”
Abbott said the launch winter offer of nine styles is characterised by mixed fabric use such as velvet, leather and suede. Themed “Velvet on the Dance Floor”, the designs feature luxurious detailing such as gold stitching and distinct shapes. Key colours are rich burgundy, black, white, gold and tan. Lace-up boots, flat ballet shoes and flat boots with patent toes are offered.
“It has French styling but a bit of a quirkiness to it. It has a regal theme going on,” she said.
All shoes are produced in a factory in Naples, Italy. Prices for ballet flats average $260, heels from $380 to $420 and boots the most expensive at $620. Shoe sizes span from European 36 to 42.
“For summer 2011 I have a shape theme happening, with a circular theme throughout. There are lots of cut-outs. I have a couple of sandals and ballet flats and a lace-up in there. The summer collection has a little bit more of a relaxed feel than winter.”
Abbott will produce two collections per year, with injections introduced in future.
Melinda Oliver