>> Another Itty Pitti find here (you're probably noticing that I just actually like saying the word Pitti as well as typing it...it's especially good in my really bad faux Italian accent). Like most tradeshows, bloggers going around taking snaps aren't really appreciated because obviously it's a place where designers and labels are out to showcase to buyers specifically. Researching a lot of the things I picked up online has been hazardous though given that a lot of the things I liked don't have a huge web presence.
Russy Valenki came up trumps though. Italian-made but with Russian roots, Russy Valenki combines two Russian costume traditions; the valenki felt boot and the Pavloposad woolen and silk shawls. For their winter line, they've concentrated on plain felt valenki boots but for S/S 10, it's the combination of the flat rubber soled boots and the Pavloposad scarves that have got the mind ticking. There's been something of a silk scarf renaissance in the past few seasons and there's plenty of designers out there doing interesting things with a 90 x 90cm square, as showcased by Liberty's Scarf Room (labels like Swash and Forget Me Not come to mind...). I've also seen Pavloposad-esque scarves being repro-ed by high street brands. I'm not denying that it would take some clever styling and experimentation time with these Russy Valenki boots to make them look half-decent on the legs. Loose-ish scarves flapping around the calves could create some weird proportions. But with some choice legwear (hoisery, leggings, jeggings etc...) and maybe some help from some sock garters, I'm thinking foularded limbs could well be a successful prospect. Oh, and of course, the clashing opportunities with my own collection of silk scarves (thanks to the mothership and the grandma) worn in the upper half are also endless.
No online or UK stockists at the mo but I'm sure someone out there will be buying in these 'scoots' (scarf and boots...maybe this term already exists...) soon.
