Cesare Paciotti has been designing shoes for the last 30 years bringing iconic and awe inspiring collections to the world! I spoke to him exclusively about his latest 2010 and 2011 collections that feature a new sole of leather and lace on all of its women’s shoes. With historical and modern inspiration, Cesare incorporates femininity into all aspects of his shoe designs to better accessorize the modern women and man. And to that end, I kindly introduce to you Mr. Cesare Paciotti!
Jacqueline: Mr.Paciotti your latest collection for 2011 bring together 19th century fashion with 80's glam. The leather and lace shoe designs are not only stylish, but sophisticated. Having such a rich heritage and cultural background from Italy, does your shoe designs always reflect such a diverse historical inspiration when you create a new collection?
Cesare Paciotti: Certainly art and history surround me and I can’t help but draw inspiration from them. Paintings, frescoes, historical buildings and architecture are all inspiring resources that cultivate my ideas but my creativity is triggered also by daily life, everyday objects and the natural landscape that surrounds me. I draw inspiration and enhance my sense of style throughout my travels, transforming my memories of the foreign worlds into something concrete.
Jacqueline: The Cesare Paciotti design house has it's own history. A family business that you became part of almost 30 years ago, has most certainly transformed over those three decades. How has your shoes evolved from when the company was first founded over 60 years ago?
Cesare Paciotti: The company was established in the 40s and was called PARIS, and my parents used to manufacture shoes for other great designers such as Versace and Romeo Gigli. In the late 80s when my sister and I took over the business, Cesare Paciotti became a household name which would later on include men and women shoes, handbags, small leather good, jewelry, clothing, home collection and a fragrance to come soon.
Jacqueline: Your shoes are most certainly exotic and luxurious for both women and men. How do you ensure that style and comfort are intertwined?
Cesare Paciotti: We are able to ensure comfort even in our sexiest sky-high heels thanks to the continuous research of the softest and most luxurious materials. Moreover, the experience of our shoe crafters and constant supervision of the factory definitely add to the creation of this very special product. My heels are always strong and sexy, aiming to make a woman feel comfortable and sexy. As for the men, the tradition of innovative shoes that made my brand famous goes side by side with the renewed love for classic shape, a perfect balance of functionality and glamour.
Jacqueline: Obviously high heels are most certainly a women's favorite accessory! When you design a women's shoe what is the first thing that comes to your mind? And how do you stay inspired?
Cesare Paciotti: I design my shoes with my wife Laura in mind, she’s a constant inspiration and a role-model. She’s always the first person to try my designs. I acknowledge what a man wants to see a woman wear while also keeping in mind what a woman views as alluring. I attempt to blend perspectives to create a sexy stiletto that appeals to both men and women.
Jacqueline: Some of the most sophisticated and modern women have donned your collection - from famous stars such as Rhianna to Blake Lively. All very discerning clientele! How do you know what is the right style and shoe for a celebrity?
Cesare Paciotti: I personally know most of the women I dress, so I draw inspiration from their style and taste, but also consider the occasion in which my shoes will be worn.
Jacqueline:As we all know Cesare Paciotti is iconic in the world of fashion. How do you perceive Cesare Paciotti in 2020 of the future!
Cesare Paciotti: I have opened a number of boutiques over the past two years, from Italy, to ASIA, passing through the U.S.A., so at the moment I believe it is better to focus on the countries where my brand is not yet at the top. However, I feel that each boutique serves as a great starting point and a means for my style to spread and broaden.The company will continue to expand, we recently launched a very successful home collection and we are working on my signature fragrance for men and women. I hope to keep growing my business and keep making women feel beautiful.
