For spring 2013, Giuseppe Zanotti introduced one of his most–recognizable shoes to date: The Cruel, a gold leaf sandal inspired by baroque motifs. But Kanye West and Virgil Abloh‘s influence took it to the next level.
“About 12 years ago, Kanye West saw this shoe and asked me to create an all-white version to coincide with the launch of his ‘Cruel Summer’ album. I realized then the shoe was a moment,” Giuseppe Zanotti explained. “He [and Virgil Abloh] also visited our showroom in Milan, which is located within a historical palace. Virgil took a picture of the Medusa and leaf motif across the showroom fireplace and they then used that for the cover of the album. At that time, we fused their vision with mine and we were able to create something that is vibrant and still resonates.”
Due to its success, the style was presented season after season in new colors and materials after its initial release. Most recently, it was seen on Nicole Ari Parker on the set of “And Just Like That” season one, in white patent with a rainbow paint platter effect.
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Other celebrity fans of the Cruel sandal through the years have included Kim Kardashian, Cardi B, Julia Fox, Khloe Kardashian and more.
On what makes an iconic shoe? Zanotti explained that an icon, in whichever form, is something that stands the test of time without losing its relevance.
“It lives in a different dimension, it does not age. It’s the same philosophy as cars, for instance. The Ferrari 250 GTO Daytona is iconic, it’s still modern and beautiful today after more than 60 years,” he said. “When you create something that makes you shiver for its beauty, well, then you know you are in the right direction.”
