Q&A: Alejandro Ingelmo Trunk Show at Capretto

Photography by Tyler Loy on September 23rd, 2014 in Editorials, Fashion

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Miami, FL – September 18, 2014 – We all know a fabulous outfit is never complete without the perfect pair of shoes to go along with it. On Thursday afternoon, Miami trendsetters made their way to Capretto as they hosted an in-store trunk show featuring New York-based, Miami born shoe designer Alejandro Ingelmo. Along with presenting his killer Fall/Winter 2014 collection styles, Ingelmo was on hand to mix and mingle with shoppers, taking the time chat with guests about the collection. Working out of his Soho-based studio in Manhattan, Ingelmo mingles the Cuban influences of his heritage with a directional New York edge. After finding initial success with his women’s line, Ingelmo set forth on the addition of a men’s shoe collection and the demand was immediate. Ingelmo has developed a cult following among editors and celebrities who are consistently captivated by his classic silhouettes in exotic materials.

In between showcasing his latest designs and meeting with fans we were able to snag a few moments with the designer extraordinaire to chat about his latest collection as well as what we can expect from him in the future.

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Alejandro Ingelmo

WRE: What was the inspiration for your latest Fall/Winter 2014 collection?

AI: Architectural and geometric silhouettes were rendered in a mix of snake, rich leathers and suedes. I also developed a new irridescent stamped snake leather which I used for both men’s and women’s. New styles including wedges, open toe booties, and lace up pumps balance the brand’s recognized sex appeal with a new sleekness.

WRE: Since you are from Miami, how has the culture here had an influence on your design aesthetic?

AI: My aesthetic is being Latin, being from Miami and the warm weather. With women’s shoes, I like to show a little bit of skin, playing with pattern to make a woman look sexy. I like a design that stands out, and of course, that’s a very ‘Miami’ thing.

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I dress many celebrities but at the end of the day seeing the public embrace your work is the most gratifying thing.

Alejandro Ingelmo

WRE: What sets you apart from other footwear designers?

AI: I think I have a very distinct design style – especially among my American contemporaries. The way I mix exotic skins and the sexiness of my silhouettes is very unique.

WRE: Describe the kind of person who is rocking your shoes?

AI: Confident, bold, likes to stand apart and make a statement.

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WRE: What was one of the most memorable moments of your design career thus far?

AI: Honestly, it is just seeing people wearing my shoes on the street, at an event or even on an Instagram photo. I dress many celebrities but at the end of the day seeing the public embrace your work is the most gratifying thing.

WRE: Where do you see your career 10 years from now? Do you think you will ever start to dabble in clothing design?

AI: Expanding retail is very important to me, especially opening a store in LA and a second store in NYC – this time on the Upper East Side. Additionally, I’d love to expand my wholesale distribution in markets like Latin America and Asia. As for product, I would like to add small leather goods and evening clutches to my product offering. RTW might be part of my future but for now my focus will be on expanding into accessories.

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