"Size 44 Please"

Rachel Comey
Images courtesy of The Fashionisto

A city built around the daily commute, the public transportation system within London has a number of interesting influences on the daily fashions of those who inhabit it. There is a certain adaptation required due to the practicalities of travelling on the underground system. From suited gentlemen carrying camping backpacks, to women stashing high heels in their bags and donning running shoes on their feet.

However for me, one of the most fascinating aspects lies within the social developments of using public transport. London, as is any other city with a prominent rail or underground service, a city of floor watchers. Eyes on the Tube, if not occupied by newspapers or Blackberrys, are focused resolutely on the floor. As a result, whether aware of it or not, the daily commuter becomes a shoe looker, ever watching and considering the footwear of others. Shoes become ever the more important as polishing off that perfect look.

Footwear where men are concerned can most often go down one of two routes - the traditional leather shoe or the colourful sports shoe. Yet there are a number of designers out there who manage to create beautiful shoes, which are smart in appearance yet perhaps a little more laid back than your Church's lace ups. Rachel Comey is one such designer, who for me always manages to produce beautiful contemporary and relevant designs.

Comey's Spring 2010 offerings are in these respects no different, for I feel that her latest pieces are quite simply stunning. Traditionally simplistic in their design, she manages to bring an appropriately modern feel to her shoes. The contrast soles and soft, buttery leather certainly make them stand out more than your average leather shoe. The use of other materials such as soft suedes and canvases manage to provide a wonderful variety of understated footwear for any occasion. Indeed the charm of these shoes lies not in brash design, but rather considered minimalism. The care and attention to each piece really does show in their display.

The display of these shoes is actually what prompted me most to post the collection, for I find myself enamoured by these shots. I think that shooting footwear can often be a hard thing to do, for one would like the styling to reflect the feel of shoe without detracting attention. Similarly, the settings are harder to choose, for close up shots rarely leave for much background story. Yet, I feel that these shots complete both tasks beautifully. The distinct focus of the lens, rather than creating a harsh contrast or bokeh, manages to slide elegantly and easily. The eye is lead naturally around each image, and each image does indeed have a story to tell.

P.S. My apologies for the rather noticeable absence, I am thankfully back to blogging! I shall endeavour to visit all of your blogs as soon as I possibly can.

Currently playing: I Against I ft. Mos Def - Massive Attack

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