Roger Vivier’s latest campaign, characterised by a dreamy whimsicality that’s hard to miss, is an ode to the Maison’s emblematic classics and a toast to the innovative silhouettes of tomorrow. Fronted by actress and first soloist at the Paris Opera, Marion Barbeau, the story unfolds within the historic grounds of the Château de Champlâtreux, and showcases Roger Vivier’s latest bags, shoes and accessories through an almost surrealist lens that puts the focus on the season’s stars.
Related article: These 16 Designer Shoes Deserve a Place in Your Wardrobe
The campaign was shot in wide-angle perspectives to accentuate details of the designs—like the sweetheart vamps of the I Love Vivier ballerina pumps, the squared, sparkling buckles on the Flower Strass Jewel bags, and the sensual cut-out on the Viv’ Canard heel—while showcasing the sunlit Baroque and Rococo decorations of the 18th-century castle.
Related article: The Enduring Appeal of Tod’s Gommino Loafers
Posing against pastel-hued interiors and lush greenery, Barbeau transforms into Alice in Wonderland, with an infectious joie de vivre that complements Roger Vivier’s sophisticated ethos. Beyond the distinctive silhouettes and glamour, fresh pastels lend a soft elegance to the spring/summer 2024 collection. The plush Viv Choc Bag, with its emblematic rounded metal buckle at the front and thin Viv’ Canard-inspired straps, is available in soft shades of yellow, purple and beige, and balanced with a denim and checkered version for a visual counterpoint.
Related article: Mesh Ballet Flats Are the Only Shoe You Need Right Now
For an even more standout option, the black velvet Ramage Jewel Mini Flower Strass Buckle clutch bag steals the limelight with its embroidered crystal-and-bead floral motif, topped with a decorated jewelled handle and a crystal fringe. Every detail reflects the artisanal craftsmanship of the brand.
Complementing these quintessential pieces are a darling bejewelled velvet waistcoat and a decadent range of jewellery that dress up any ensemble. The dangling Disco earrings, and the Bouquet
Multiflowers necklace, for example, are imbued with a touch of maximalism that recalls the heydays of the ‘70s.
The focal point of the collection is the re-invented Viv’ Canard. Created by the late Monsieur Roger Vivier in the 1950s, this kitten heel is recognised as one of the Maison’s most emblematic creations. As its name (which means duck in French) suggests, the design is inspired by a duck’s beak, with a subtly angular design tapering to a squarish tip in tribute to its feathered muse. The shape was revolutionary for its time: Early models featured a streamlined profile and were typically finely embroidered, with some sporting a unique protrusion along the middle for a three-dimensional facade. As for the slingback design, Roger Vivier used contrasting piping to connect the buckled strap to the kitten heel, accentuating its sleekness even more.
Today’s design sees creative director Gherardo Felloni respectfully infusing contemporary flair into the 1950s model, with a more elongated silhouette that ends in a square tapered toe. Crafted in silk satin, patent leather or shimmering sequins, each pair is adorned with square buckles in different sizes with a red, heart- shaped insole.
To bring a touch of spring into your wardrobe, opt for the Slingback Pumps in patent leather that come in pastel yellow, pink and violet hues. And for those who seek a head-turning fashion statement, the Disco D’Orsay and the Slingback pumps are your best bets. The former features an ultra-sleek silhouette adorned with crystals and maxi sequins, while the latter sports a fully sequinned fabric upper, anchored with metallic leather straps. An exceptional alternative for those opposed to sky-high stilettos, Roger Vivier shows that vertiginous doesn’t always equate to sexy. Sometimes, a pair of well-made kitten heels is what’s needed to make confident strides anywhere.
For more information, visit their website.