The Bite Magazine - issue 16

I love a pair of standout heels. Every wardrobe need those neutral capsule pieces and whilst the same goes for your footwear wardrobe, there’s nothing better than pairing a perfectly simple ensemble with a pair of gorgeous, colourful heels that will stop you in your tracks. If striking stilettos are your thing then Chelsea Paris’ SS16 collection is definitely going to be making a dent in your bank account and a splash in your wardrobe with their gorgeous styles. Launched in 2011 by designer Theresa Ebagua, Chelsea Paris is named after her two daughters and is driven by her love of timeless design and impec- cable craftsmanship. With a desire to create truly beautiful and well-made shoes, it was only natural that Ebagua trained at the heart of the luxury foot- wear industry in Italy, first at Ars Sutoria in Milan and later as an apprentice with artisan shoemak- ers in the region. This education at the hands of skilled cordwainers gave the designer all the skills she needed to set up her Chelsea Paris brand and realise her dream to create the most beautiful shoes. The designer is a huge fan of the Art Deco move- ment and historical French fashion, using these long held loves as the inspiration for her designs.You can see it in the fan-like shapes used throughout her collections as well as the soft, Versailles inspired colour palette. Ebagua says she designs for the free spirited woman and her shoes are the perfect partner for anyone with an individual sense of style. What I love about the SS16 collection is that it’s a great mix between feminine and confident design. The Sehnaz and Ada styles are extremely pretty, especially in the pastel hues but the very Art Deco fan-style panels enclosed the ankle on both styles, giving them boldness as well. The Soyak heels are super sexy thanks to the slinky thin straps but the use of snakeskin adds edginess to the style whilst the red suede version is both soft and suggestive. Seventies style fringing is pretty hot right now and Ebagua has incorporated this into her col- lection with her own unique spin. The Sultan is a subtler take on the trend, with a pair of fringed tassels wrapping delicately around the ankle whilst the Slash is super dramatic with a wrap of fringe cascading down from the ankle, making a simple strappy sandal a truly unique piece. In the tan suede they’ll be the perfect summer sandal, swishing ever so slightly as you walk and effortlessly stylish when paired with an all-black ensemble.The Adalar pumps would be perfect for work, adding a touch of per- sonality to a sombre outfit but they’d pop just as nicely paired with distressed jeans and a cashmere sweater for a weekend brunch outfit. And for the ultimate night out heel, look no further than the Huzar sandal. Its block coloured panels and limb-lengthening heels will be the finishing touch to any outfit whilst the fastening at the ankle will ensure that your feet stay secure and comfortable all night long. I’m already building a dream summer wardrobe around this gorgeous collection and definitely can’t wait to see what Chelsea Paris brings us for the autumn/winter season. If anyone can add a serious dose of colour and fun to our winter wardrobes it’s Theresa Ebagua! www.chelseaparis.com bite shoes