by Yuka Yoneda


These ain’t your babushka’s sneakers, but Russy Valenki’s Russian pavloposad–inspired kicks have us saying “da!” Fashioned from vintage silk scarves, the sumptuously colored kicks come in a variety of one-of-a-kind patterns, ranging from Versace-esque gold chain styles to feminine florals. Word on the street has it that the Italian label will only be making 600 available worldwide, spelling stiff competition for the legions of fans desperate for a pair—present company included.


TIE ONE ON
If you’ve never heard of a pavloposad shawl, don’t worry, we did a little research for you. The traditional foulards or scarves first popped up in the city of Pavlovskii Posad (hence the moniker) around the 1860s, when they were given to brides on their wedding day as future family heirlooms.
Like the Russian shawls of antiquity, Russy Valenki’s silken plimsolls are designed to become cherished heirlooms. The brand scours Italy’s vintage markets to find its foulards, selecting pieces that dovetail with a specific theme: baroque vintage, hunting vintage, and geometric vintage. Each shoe can be strung up with regular laces or, to strengthen the pavloposad connection, embellished with a decorative bow.
Dying for a pair to call your own? The shoes will be available online in September, according to Russy Valenki’s Facebook page.
(Source: www.ecouterre.com )