The Portuguese footwear brand Luis Onofre showcases its latest Legacy collection, emphasizing craftsmanship, comfort, and a blend of heritage with contemporary fashion at Lisbon Fashion Week.
During Lisbon Fashion Week, the spotlight fell on the Portuguese footwear brand Luis Onofre, as it unveiled its latest collection, aptly named the Legacy collection. This event provided a platform for its creator, Luis Onofre, to share insights on the inspiration and vision behind his work, marking a significant moment in the brand’s 35-year history, which is steeped in heritage and tradition.
The Legacy collection takes its cue from a rich archive of accessories designed in Italy from 2000 to 2010, which Onofre rediscovered in his office. Each piece within the collection is designed to narrate a story, reflecting the brand’s intent to reinterpret its heritage. “This collection combines masculine elements with feminine sensuality,” Onofre stated, highlighting the uniqueness of the offerings. The designer has crafted classic silhouettes by infusing them with bold accents, giving each pair of shoes a distinct character.
Onofre’s approach to footwear centers around empowerment, aiming to design shoes that cater to confident, independent women. “My goal is to make women feel confident and comfortable in every pair,” he explained. He underlines the significance of a shoe not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in the comfort it provides for the wearer. Notably, the construction of the sole receives special attention, which he describes as “the only object with a soul is a shoe,” stressing its importance in ensuring lasting comfort throughout the day.
Attention to detail is a hallmark of the Luis Onofre brand, which employs unique handcrafting techniques that are becoming rare in Europe. The Legacy collection also features jewelry-inspired elements, particularly drawing from the craftsmanship of Venice. Onofre expresses curiosity in his archival discoveries, noting that he has designed over 25,000 styles throughout his career.
In a bid to innovate, Luis Onofre is adapting his signature silhouette of elegant high heels to meet the modern demand for comfort, creating more comfortable versions with lower heels while maintaining sophistication.
International expansion is a key focus for the Luis Onofre brand. Currently available in multi-brand stores across Europe, Onofre is actively working on entering the U.S. market. He acknowledges the challenges present in today’s fashion landscape, stating, “Nowadays, we see the same styles everywhere. I want to bring back the individuality we had in the 2000s.” Collaborations with other fashion houses, including exclusive projects with retail giant H&M and various French labels, also represent a strategic direction for the brand. Furthermore, sustainability remains a primary concern, with eco-friendly production technologies being integrated into their processes.
In summary, the Legacy collection from Luis Onofre represents a fusion of craftsmanship, familial traditions, and a modern perspective on fashion. By honoring the past while ensuring contemporary appeal, the collection seeks to resonate with today’s discerning consumers. Each piece tells a story, embodying the authentic Portuguese spirit and a meticulous attention to detail that defines the brand.
Source: Noah Wire Services
