Onward Luxury Group (OLG) has signed a licensing deal with Francesco Russo and launched new footwear label Carlotha Ray with Antolina designer Mariela Schwarz Montiel.
OLG is the Milan-based branch of the Japanese parent company Onward Holdings LTD, a luxury group specializing in the manufacturing and distribution of designer and contemporary brands in the global high-end sector. It operates international showrooms in Milan, Paris, New York and Tokyo.
Russo created some interesting silhouettes for spring ’20 — and though the designer isn’t one to latch on to trends, the square toe was present in a new take on his signature flame sandal. (The point that usually rises from the rear came squared off at the tip.) Another trend done the Russo way was the rolled leather strap sandal. His came with a chunky rope of woven leather that resembled mountaineering cord in its texture.
Carlotha Ray is made in Italy with 100% natural rubber from Madagascar and uses colors and scents derived from rice, seaweed and egg shell. It takes its name from Montiel’s South American grandma who runs a sustainably managed school.
The scalloping and delicate patterns running around the edges of the soles are inspired by French porcelain — the Paris based designer lives in Limoges and her husband is involved in the town’s traditional local economy. “There was no luxurious type of beach shoes like this on the market so I wanted to created an alternative,” she explained. — With contributions from Katie Abel
