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Chanel-o-holics may have barely just broken in their cap-toed pumps from Matthieu Blazy’s debut Chanel collection, but the designer is already onto the next conversation-starting shoe—or maybe it’s a lack thereof?
Yesterday Chanel presented its resort 2027 collection in Biarritz, where, among the mermaid-esque paillettes and logo’d swimcaps were pairs of particularly freaky shoes that got the Internet chattering: heels tied to models’ feet—not a sole in sight.
Vogue staffers—like many members of the fashion community—were instantly intrigued by these semi-barefoot shoes. Where would one wear these? Who would wear these? How did we get to this phalange-filled moment? Here, four Vogue writers go tête-à-tête—or, rather, pied-à-pied—on Chanel’s entry into the freaky shoe arena.
Define yourself—are you a freaky shoe fan or a skeptic?
Hannah Jackson: I am pro! While I’m admittedly an entry-level shoe freak, I think they’re the easiest way to add intrigue to any outfit. My current go-to are my Tory Burch open-toed monkstraps.
Anna Cafolla: A self-annointed split-toe savant. My favorite pair—Margiela Tabi, low-heeled ballerinas—are currently being held hostage by my cobbler, who is searching for the wooden shoebox splint needed for their repair. The Tabi collection is very well-loved.
Max Berlinger: I like the idea of a freaky shoe for someone else, but I pretty much stick to Vans slip-ons for myself. But I love seeing a really wild shoe on the runway—I still remember the awe I felt when I saw those McQueen armadillo shoes come down the catwalk for the first time. And I deeply respect anyone taking a big swing with a shoe.
Christian Allaire: Always enjoy an off-kilter shoe. It’s a low-lift way to instantly inject your look with some personality. Why be basic when you can be bold.
What was your immediate reaction when the shoe hit the Chanel runway?
HJ: Admittedly, I was more focused on the fish gill headpieces and swimming caps, but once my eyes finally made it down to the models’ feet, I was totally delighted. What a cheeky, fun idea. Blazy isn’t trying to convince anyone that these are practical, but sometimes the whimsy is the entire point.
CA: I always enjoy a runway shoe that doesn’t lean into comfort or practicality—we’re supposed to be enjoying a fantasy here. The (mostly) bare feet touching the sandy carpet were reminiscent of frollicking on the beach, which was the whole vibe of the show.
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