Stuart Weitzman Platforms, Wedges, Clogs Review: Leather, Suede; Leopard, Tiger, Snake Prints

Stuart Weitzman wedges and platforms address the more casual and fashionably dressy wearing occasions and needs, leaving the corporate and the more formal evening dress niches for the pumps and heels. That said, quite a few of the platforms – especially those opting for a solid, single-tone coloring – can effectively function as evening footwear during a formal event.

While all three major SW stylistic features consistently recur in this segment, they are often given a new spin, creating a unique aesthetic that stands separately from other shoes the brand offers. Thus, Swarowski crystals spread symmetrically on the entire toe (instead of forming a type of bow or brooch, as in the bridal and evening shoes), suede layers overlap in fresh angular and geometrical configurations, often complemented by different colors, and animal prints are given more space to exert their ironic predatory effect.

Materials

An interesting addition to the standard assortment of patent leather comprises the nappy calf skin, the soft suede, and the rare shearling (much more often used in the boots, Stuart Weitzman's own, but even more often in Cole Haan, Steve Madden, and Christian Louboutin). Holding the leather cuts in place, metallic buckles and studs also act as decorative accents.

Besides classic casual-corporate designs, this department also includes loafer inspired shoes (anticipating the flats and loafers section), slingbacks, sandals, clogs, and even booties – a versatile in terms of style and season selection. Wedges offer a relatively small number of collections, composed in a surprisingly reserved bent: single-tone, and clearly formal oriented.

Platforms

Mocup and Stitchup collections opt for a somewhat retro, strict pattern; Fausto and Flyaway introduce Stuart Weitzman's most experimental two and tri-color shoes that boldly combine laces, materials and shades into a single whole; animal print or single-tone Coverup present an autumn booties architecture; Froberg and Marse deploy bows and studs. Additional lines incorporate glitter and Swarowski crystals for ladies with a taste for a glisten.

Casual shoes that, almost all suede (the strong preference for the soft material already indicating home or familiar indoors as the designated setting), retain an air of class without imposing – or demanding too much attention. In the mules and the shearling clogs Stuart Weitzman brings this feature to its logical conclusion.