If you're not already following our socials, make sure you join in this week, as I’m currently in Italy for my first European research and design trip in THREE YEARS (thanks, coronavirus!).
Our shoes are lovingly manufactured in a family run operation in Sant’Elpidio a Mare, in North Eastern Italy - a part of the world renowned for its shoemaking excellence. Since habbot's inception 13 years ago (wow, how time flies!) I've made regular trips to Italy to source new materials, seek inspiration from this glorious country, and develop our spring/summer and autumn/winter collections with our wonderful Italian team.
Roughly 5 hours away from this tiny town of just 16,000 people, is the bustling metropolis of Milan. Every September, Milan explodes with an impressive calendar of back-to-back fashion shows, events and tradefairs. If you work in fashion and luxury, this time of year is an absolute must-visit! For me, the biggest reason to lock in a September Italian sojourn is to visit Lineapelle, the world's most important exhibition celebrating all things shoe-making: leather, textiles, heels, soles, buckles, laces, accessories plus all the inside, unseen elements that go into crafting a shoe.
This breathtakingly large trade show is where I come to explore and discover all the incredible Italian leather and material colours, patterns, styles, textures and innovations that bring our customers so much joy.
Beside the excitement of creating a new collection, the most fun part of travel planning… which SHOES to take?!?
For this trip I’ve traded my work-from-home wintry staples for an easy capsule collection that can take me from day to night, from wandering cobblestone streets to working on the factory floor. I wanted a balance of style, comfort, practicality… and a habbot signature pop of colour, of course! Paired with my habbot shoes are some fresh new pieces from my favourite local clothing designers.
Check out my 2022 Italian travel wardrobe below.
And to see more of my Italian adventures, make sure you follow us on Instagram!
Annie Abbott
habbot Founder / Designer
IN TRANSIT
Comfort and layers are key for my epic journey across the globe. I love a cosy cardi for a plane ride, plus this stunning satchel carry-all is indispensable for all my documents. To top off the look? My absolute favourite travel lace-ups, the silver 'ormond' - bringing the attitude of a sneaker, but with major polish!
$485.00
The habbot ‘ormond’ combines the finish of a lace-up flat with the lightness and comfort of a cushioned platform microsole. This smart-casual women’s derby brogue in 'reptile' textured metallic silver leather is perfect for anyone who spends a lot of… read moreormond - silver
ON MY FEET AT LINEAPELLE
With designers and creatives from all around the world flocking to this exhibition, I'll be wearing something that stands out, but that I feel like myself in - this fun and relaxed combo is ideal! The 'piano' in lipstick has enough support for me to be on my feet all day, with a vibrant colour that's sure to be a talking point!
$445.00
habbot ‘piano’ women’s flat slip-on loafers feature a flattering high cut vamp, with classic penny loafer strap detailing. Soft and supple in textured lipstick pink patent leather and finished with a low block heel, piano is equally at home paired… read morepiano - lipstick
SUPPLIER LUNCH
After working together for so many years, our Italian team have become like family - and it will be very special to spend time with them after being kept apart these last few years. A bright summer sandal paired with a floaty dress will be perfect for an overdue lunch-into-dinner catch-up!
luigi - leopard
$250.00
$445.00
The habbot women's 'luigi' flat sandal is an elegant update on the classic gladiator style. With an open square toe, adustable wrap-around ankle strap and combination leopard print 'pony' cowhide and black suede finish, this flattering sandal style is perfect… read more
MARKET RESEARCH
(AKA Sightseeing & Window Shopping!)
Most important: Time for fashion research! Exploring the streets of Milan for ideas and inspiration requires something chic that can also stand me pounding the pavement - our new platform sandals 'ulivo' will hold up well. Paired with a classy all-in-one ensemble I'll be ready for when inspiration strikes!
A DAY AT THE FACTORY
It's long days with the team at our factory in Sant'Elpidio a Mare - fuelled by espresso and creativity! I need to look and feel professional, but relaxed too. This smart casual ensemble with our best-selling 'wala' sneaker will suit a day "in the office" to a tee!
wala - nero
$495.00
The habbot women's 'wala' sneaker is crafted from smooth, nero black calf leather for a fresh take on the classic lace-up tennis shoe. Perfect for off-duty dressing, wala is finished with a glitter heel counter and an ultra comfortable rubber… read more