In a bold celebration of the beauty in flaws, British fashion house Universal Works and French shoemaker Paraboot have joined forces to create a captivating collection. This collaboration, titled 'La Beauté Dans L'Imperfection,' takes Paraboot's iconic Michael shoe, a timeless design from 1945, and gives it a fresh, contemporary twist.
The Michael shoe, a two-eyelet lace-up, is renowned for its thick leather, piped seam, and prominent stitching around the natural rubber sole. The collection offers a unique twist with colorways of black, coffee, and sand, along with smooth and textured finishes. Each pair is meticulously hand-finished in France, showcasing the craftsmanship that has made Paraboot a revered name in footwear.
But here's where it gets intriguing: the shoes feature a removable fringe and a debossed message, echoing the collection's name, 'La Beauté Dans L'Imperfection.' This phrase encapsulates the essence of the collaboration, emphasizing the allure of imperfection and the uniqueness of handmade creations. And this is the part most people miss—the subtle yet powerful message that each shoe is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
David Keyte, the founder of Universal Works, shares a personal connection with Paraboot, having worn their shoes since his youth. He reflects on the collaboration, stating, "True beauty lies in imperfection. Handmade creations are special because they are uniquely imperfect." Paraboot echoes this sentiment, highlighting the soul of their shoes, which lies in their handmade individuality.
This collaboration is not Universal Works' first foray into creative partnerships. They have previously worked with Japanese brands Flower Mountain and Master-piece, further showcasing their commitment to innovative design and craftsmanship.
The 'La Beauté Dans L'Imperfection' collection is a testament to the power of embracing flaws and celebrating individuality. It invites us to appreciate the unique charm of handmade creations and the stories they tell. Are you ready to embrace the beauty in imperfection? What do you think about this bold statement in fashion? Share your thoughts in the comments!
