Bronx launches shoe line with designer Maria Lopez

South African footwear brand Bronx Woman has teamed up with Spanish shoe designer Maria Lopez to create a new designer collection, Maria Lopez for Bronx

Maria Lopez for Bronx was recently launched at a media event held at Delos Antiques in Woodstock, Cape Town. Guests included the designer Maria Lopez herself, who flew out from Madrid, Spain, as well as DESTINY's Fashion Director Papama Ramogase.

The collection comprises elegant pumps, feminine wedges and the dramatic signature Maria Lopez stiletto.

We asked Lopez a few questions about the collection.

How and why did you become a footwear designer?
I become a designer largely because of my passion for footwear. My father was a designer and I spent my formative years accompanying him to work. Seeing him work and his passion for footwear left an impression on me. I like to think being a footwear designer is in my blood.

What's the philosophy behind the shoes you design?
I want women to feel like goddesses. Ask anyone what makes her feel beautiful and sexy, it’s a great pair of heels. I like to evoke that feeling with my shoes. I want women to feel feminine, sexy and powerful – and the perfect pair of shoes does that.

What can women expect from your collaboration with Bronx Woman?
A range of shoes perfect for every woman, we have flats, heels, wedges. What will stand out to women in SA when the range hits stores in September is the unique handwriting, a focus on feminine, flirty details and range that can take you from day to night, work to play. Think sky-high wedges, glamorous heels and ballerina pumps.

How can fashion empower women?
Fashion as an industry, I think, can be very dangerous. But style for an individual is one of the most empowering tools that women have available to them.

Why is it important for woman to feel sexy from the feet up and how can they achieve this?
Shoes make the outfit. Shoes are the ultimate accessories and can turn a simple LBD into an amazing look for a night out. The perfect shoe makes you look taller, sophisticated and trendy.

How do your shoes reflect the footwear trends?
I am not a slave to trends, my collection is very signature. I incorporate the trends to a degree, but in essence the Maria Lopez collection follows my unique style.

How would you advise women to turn their love for fashion into a career?
Be prepared to start at the bottom. I have done everything from cleaning designer showrooms to designing full collections for Zara, Aldo and Nine West. You have to be prepared to put in the work, make great connections, get an understanding for what consumers want and love what you do. I still get excited with every season, every new launch. I still want all the shoes for myself!

The Maria Lopez for Bronx collection will be available at leading footwear retailers from September 2012. View our slideshow for a sneak peek of the range. For more information visit: www.bronxwoman.com or call 021 590 7000.