The Creative Director of Sergio Rossi between 2008 and 2013, Francesco Russo is one of fashion’s most in-demand footwear designers. Born in the southern Italian region of Puglia in 1974, he developed his understanding of leather goods at Costume National in Milano before moving to Miu Miu.
Celebrity Endorsements: A Testament to Style
We’ve spotted Kendall Jenner and Olivia Palermo in fabulous shoes by Francesco Russo. Other celebrity fans include Dakota Fanning, Kerry Washington, Sofia Richie, Carey Mulligan, Priyanka Chopra, Kate Beckinsale, Naomie Harris, Anne Hathaway, and Claire Danes.
Creative Evolution: From Milan to Paris
He eventually relocated to Paris to work at what was then Yves Saint Laurent with Tom Ford and Stefano Pilati. After a lifetime of honing skills at these reputable brands, Russo launched his eponymous label in 2013. All of Francesco Russo’s shoes are made in his atelier in Italy.
A Unique Approach to Design
While brands like Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo focus on collections, Francesco has skipped the idea and instead focuses on just a few timeless shapes. He has stated that he owes his love of shoes to his mother and sisters, recalling that “as soon as they wore heels, they immediately turned into magnificent creatures.”
His extreme yet refined shapes have become as much art object as footwear, bound not to seasonal collections but to the natural rhythms of inspiration and creation.
Masterpieces of Craftsmanship and Design
The following chic and ultra-feminine shoes combine his focus on craftsmanship and tradition with the designer’s experimental eye.
1. Francesco Russo D’Orsay Suede and Snake Pumps, $795
Designed with flattering d’Orsay cutouts, this pair has a dusty-pink suede pointed heel complemented by a contrasting snake toe
2. Francesco Russo Lace-Up Patent-Leather Sandals, $1,950
These caged sandals are crafted from rich burgundy patent-leather with a lace-up front
3. Francesco Russo Leopard-Print Calf Hair and Patent-Leather Sandals, $995
Leopard-print, calf-hair, and black patent-leather sandals finished with a flattering slim ankle strap and an antique-rose footbed
4. Francesco Russo Braided Leather Sandals, $990
This braided flat sandal is set on a comfortably cushioned footbed and a pretty antique-rose sole
5. Francesco Russo Braided Patent-Leather Sandals, $1,490
Set on a pin-thin heel, these braided patent-leather sandals have a lace-up front and back for the most secure fit
6. Francesco Russo Leather and Suede Sandals, $795
These sandals are designed with black leather trims that make the antique-rose suede really pop
7. Francesco Russo Leather Pumps, $840
Crafted from flawlessly smooth leather, this pair has a distinct back panel and comfortable insole
8. Francesco Russo Buckled Leather Sandals, $1,280
This eye-catching pair hits right below the knee and is finished with buckled straps to help you find your perfect fit
9. Francesco Russo Lace-Up Karung Sandals, $2,390
Crafted from karung in neutral shades of mushroom and white, these sandals have flattering cutouts and an adjustable lace-up front
10. Francesco Russo Leather Sandals, $890
Set on a pin-thin stiletto heel, this pair ties at the ankle for adjustable support and has a comfortable lightly cushioned sole
11. Francesco Russo Lace-Up Leather Sandals, $1,590
Crafted from smooth black leather, these open-toe sandals are cut and stitched with panels that look like leaves