Culturally Inspired Designs Are Popping Up In Highly Sought-After Designer Collections
From babouche slippers to intricately embroidered sandals, Middle Eastern footwear has served as a compass within the fashion world, pointing to tradition, trends, and timeless style that is descended from royalty and rooted in modesty.
Whether flats or pumps, stilettos or a stylish kitten heel, what we slip on our perfectly pedicured feet reflects not only our style but also speaks volumes about our heritage and culture.
Although style inevitably changes with the seasons, the foundation remains the same. And the foundation of an elegant, polished, and composed look is a dazzling pair of heels that fit like a dream.
From Runway to Rush Hour
From fashion runways around the world to chic city streets during rush hour, women are stepping it up and stepping out in high-end style.
Global fashion brands such as Salvatore Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo, Gianvito Rossi, and Aquazurra are continuing to expand their luxury empires into the GCC region, providing upscale shoppers in the Middle East with designs that are inspired by the regal beauty of traditional Arabic footwear. For example, babouches and mules have provided design inspiration that blends fashion with functionality, yet with a nod to the modesty that is rightfully cherished in Middle Eastern culture.
In my opinion, the most exciting thing about the growing influence of Middle Eastern style in upscale fashion houses is the ease of transitioning these wearable shoes to everyday life. Conveying rich yet understated elegance and supreme sophistication that never screams “look at me!”, these designs exude the confidence and poise that we aspire to as modern women who do it all.
Collections Fit For A Celebration
Every Summer Accessories by Versace
As we continue to see influential designers embrace Middle Eastern craftsmanship, there’s never been a better time to fill our closets with renowned luxury shoe brands such as Versace, Manolo Blahnik, and, of course, Christian Louboutin. That coveted red-soled shoe may hold a special place in our hearts, but did you know that Christian Louboutin’s eponymous brand also has strong Arabic ties?
Creative genius and founder Christian Louboutin has vocally and proudly spoken of his Arabic heritage, after discovering his biological father was Egyptian. Although geographically located in Northern Africa, Egypt has long been considered part of the lower Middle East, and continues to be a historically and culturally significant part of the region.
It is only fitting, then, that his collections showcase opulent embroidery and vibrant colors, adorned with touches such as hand-beading and lots of shimmer. All featuring, of course, the ubiquitous bold red sole.
When you’re longing for Louboutin, there are boundless options to tickle your fancy. I’m talking studded espadrilles and stylish flats, glamorous golden stilettos, and multicolored pumps that just might make your heart skip a beat. It’s evident that Christian Louboutin knows exactly what we want, and he delivers every time.
Every Summer Accessories by Versace
Credits: Christian Louboutin website
Sparkle As Style Inspiration
Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but it’s the sparkle that is the very essence of the diamond. What’s a diamond without that gorgeous light-catching glimmer?
And when it comes to sparkle, Manolo Blahnik has always been a diamond in the rough. With her perfect mix of high-fashion designs and reimagined classics, CEO Kristina Blahnik is not only stepping into the well-heeled shoes of her famed uncle but brazenly putting her own creative spin on the coveted footwear collections that bear her family name. Although Carrie Bradshaw had a stylish hand in putting Manolos on the map in Sex and the City, it is undeniably Kristina Blahnik who has been successfully navigating the brand into new waters.
Credits: Manolo Blahnik website
As Manolo Blahnik brings its signature style forward in 2025, all that glitters is definitely gold. You’ll see plenty of Middle Eastern-inspired sparkle, with glitzy, opulent designs sashaying alongside reinvented classics that feel fresh and new, such as the iconic Maysale and Hangisi collections.
With details like crystal embellishments and luscious fabrics such as smooth suede, satin, and crepe de chine, these modern Manolos pair with everything from your tried-and-true little black dress to that knock-out special occasion gown.
Whether you’re a Versace, Manolo gal or a Louboutin lover, it’s never been easier to find a shoe style that speaks to your soul (or sole!). I encourage you to take some time browsing your favorite luxury boutiques, scrolling through designer websites, or even just observing the women around you. Because you know what? You just may realize that the most stylish shoes are a direct reflection of the cultural traditions that have shaped you into the person you are today.
