Between what we knew of Esquivel Shoes and Raquel Allegra's spring '09 fashion show at BOXeight, this trunk show this past Saturday, featuring both labels was enough to get us intrigued.
Allegra's spring '09 collection, which inspired the Raquel Allegra boot created by Esquivel Shoes, were the main attractions of the day. And, recession or not, people came out to shop the hand-distressed dresses, tunics, shirts and scarves made from T-shirts recycled from correctional facilities (ranging from $500-$1,200) and supple calf-length boots (starting at around $900 and coming in 20 colors and leather types) and Esquivel's new women's oxfords.
And though we were already impressed by Allegra's runway presentation, it was exciting to view her capsule collection up close to truly appreciate the distressing process (which can take up to 10 hours for one garment), and results in delicate webs, offering different looks depending how you wear and drape each piece. The trunk show was a unique opportunity to shop the spring '09 collection, as it is available exclusively at Maxfield in Los Angeles (and you can bet at a slightly higher price point). Allegra, who got her start working retail at Barneys, hopes the collection will fuel a cut-and-sew line in the future. "Before two years ago," the designer told Racked, "I didn't know I had a future outside retail." Her future is looking bright and gorgeous to us.
· Party (S)hopping: Raquel Allegra and Esquivel Shoes Trunk Show Saturday [Racked]For more stories from Racked LA, go to la.racked.com.
