Is creativity a genetic likelihood? Look at Paul and Stella McCartney, Ronald & Sophie Dahl, Rosa and Margherita Missoni. In Lucila Lotti’s case, genetics definitely played a part in her creative upbringing. Her father, Jorge Lotti began his tailoring shop in Buenos Aires in 1920 and grew the business to become a major presence in the South American garment industry until the 90’s, when it closed. Lucila, the youngest of the family grew up amongst this love of detail, fine fabrics and quality craftsmanship.  

Lucila began her own business focusing on shoes made from patent leather, suede, satin and vinyl in homage to her mother who always wore heels and lipstick when leaving the home. Opening her own boutique in the creative, bohemian hub of Palermo in Buenos Aires, Lucila is amongst fine company. Given this sense of history and creative disposition, it is no surprise that Lucila’s debut collection came to the attention of Patricia Field and Sex & The City. Her bright, bold shapes and ability to mix colour and silhouette in a brave, fashionable style will no doubt continue to inspire more international press. – Kate Vandermeer

Tim and Fiona Slack (T&F Slack) are married to each other and to their love of creating shoes, considered “modern classics” by industry standards. Their collection gives the classic “Gibson” or “Derby” shoe shape new life when unexpected colour combinations, stitching details and fabrications are blended together.

You can choose from the perforated Punch Derby in white leather with yellow peaking beneath, or have a custom made pair to order in their Notting Hill Shop or use the simple “build your own shoe” system they’ve created within Selfridges and Liberty.

Dedicated to keeping manufacturing local, they make around 150 shoes per month in their factory where old-fashioned machinery is salvaged and customised to create their “modern classic” shoes. With so much repetition in the world of shoes, it’s so refreshing to see a unique and bespoke solution that really does draw the eye downwards!  – Kate Vandermeer