The André Assous brand is one that as always stayed ahead of the curve. After all, André Assous — the founder of the namesake label — is recognized for introducing the classic espadrille shoe into the American market from Europe during the 1970s. Since then, the brand has gone on to become one that spotlights style, comfortability and above all, innovation throughout their designs.
Now, the brand has once again brought their ideas to life with the debut of their Fall/Winter 2024 collection, just in time for the season. The new line, which features a variety of fashionably chic wedges, heels and boots across a bold yet refined color palette, embraces the charm of the season.
With a focus on signature silhouettes through an evolutionary lens, the new collection gives a diverse selection of footwear styles tailored to every mood and occasion. Each style effortlessly transforms from day, to eveningwear thanks to their contemporary designs that put classically chic style at the forefront. Specific pieces include those such as the Belinda Woven Featherweights Wedge, the Wynne Woven Heel, the Winter Suede Boot and the Palmer Boot, in addition to other wedge and heel styles.
Now, Diana Castillo, the brand’s director of design, spoke with Fashion Mannuscript to give insight into the collection, its inspiration, how the André Assous brand continues to evolve and more.
To start, the brand’s new Fall/Winter 2024 collection is one that can be best described as one inspired by the natural changes of the season, particularly during the winter months. “The Andre Assous Fall/Winter 2024 collection draws inspiration from the seasonal transformation of winter— nature’s ‘regeneration,’” said Castillo. She added, “As the days shorten and temperatures drop, we tend to naturally seek comfort and warmth indoors. This collection is crafted to help you feel cozy and confident as the weather cools down.”
The new collection arrives alongside a campaign photographed by Melinda DiMauro as well as a film produced by Juan Bianchi, that further captures the essence of the season. Set at a countryside estate, the campaign’s location further highlights the collection’s theme while putting a spotlight on its variety of style offerings. “The stunning countryside estate with the charming vintage elements provided the perfect backdrop for our striking leather boots, refined mules, woven pumps and trendy clogs,” Castillo said. “Models Yana Romano and Alessandra Grabowski starred, who embody an effortlessly chic spirit, with the objects of desire prominently featured in the foreground. The footwear featured in the campaign conveys a relaxed luxury that takes the modern woman from day to evening with ease.”
The collection also introduces some of the brand’s “Featherweights” silhouettes. These styles combine the elements of signature styling, with that of ultra-cushioned comfort, so that wearers can look stylish without sacrificing comfort — especially during the chillier time of the year. “In the colder months, the customer often faces a trade-off between comfort and functionality – we are committed to changing that,” Castillo noted. “With our Featherweights collection we’re exploring ways to incorporate lighter, more comfortable materials into our winter boots without sacrificing performance. For example, instead of using the traditional heavier rubber outsole, we’ll use a lighter component like Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This way, customers can have the same traction but won’t have to sacrifice comfort or style.”
As for the brand’s design process, it’s one that is rooted in intricacy and detail while prioritizing consumers’ needs and desires, ultimately bridging the gap between style and functionality. “First question is always: ‘what does the customer need?’ Understanding the needs (and desires) of our intended wearer is crucial,” Castillo said. “Next, we delve into research, research and more research: exploring current fashion trends, colors, silhouettes and materials! From there, we embark on initial sketch concepts and ideas that evolve into detailed technical drawings. The final step is material selection – the textiles and colors are what brings it all to life! So much goes into this process: functionality, aesthetics, sustainability; the possibilities are endless! For our Fall/ Winter 2024 collection, our materials combine cozy knits and rich leathers for a sophisticated yet comfortable look.”
Overall, the brand’s conceptualization and design processes are in-depth. So much so, that it can take up to one year to develop one style. “The entire process, from concept to design development, can take anywhere from six months to a year – even for a single silhouette,” Castillo shared. “While design is essential, it often requires the least time in the overall process. Collaborating with our pattern makers and specialists is what helps transforms our sketches from 2D, to a tangible product.”
Referring to their production process, which takes place in Spain, Castillo is proud that the André Assous brand still creates their signature espadrilles in the European country. “We are one of the very few brands still producing our espadrilles in Spain,” Castillo shared. “We take pride in collaborating with family-owned business in preserving the artistry of espadrille making. Our espadrilles are particularly known for their comfortability and lightweight designs. While espadrilles aren’t typically considered a winter product, we hope to evoke that same comfort and ease into our Fall collection.”
To round it all out, Castillo shares what the brand’s favorite style is from the new collection. “We are currently obsessed with the ‘Winter Boot,’ she emphasized. “It’s a twist on a classic bootie with a chic 2-inch heel and flattering almond toe. Whether it’s in a print or leather – this style effortlessly transitions from day to night, making it the ideal choice for any occasion. Plus, with a cushioned leather insole, it offers luxurious comfort for all-day wear.”
Select styles from André Assous’ new Fall/Winter 2024 collection are now available to shop at andreassous.com.
