- BY ISSIMO
- May 20, 2023
We are fond of great collabs. We like them even more when they blend our ChicISSIMO vibes with the pizazz and know-how of a legendary brand we love and respect. A case in point? Our latest Scholl x ISSIMO capsule collection.
Featuring four variations on the original Pescura Heel in nappa leather, linen, silk and velvet, the whole line is the perfect marriage of Mediterranean style and timeless comfort – the latter being one of the main traits of Scholl, the legendary footwear brand that, since the 1960s, has turned the low-heeled mule into a symbol of cool, laidback sexiness and summer fun.
With their iconic beech wood soles and our ISSIMO touch, these unisex sandals are the shoes of summer 2023: Sassy, easy to slip into, and full of personality, to cater every taste and work with every outfit.
It goes unsaid that we had to do something special to mark their launch. So we asked iconic British photographer Brett Lloyd – who’s been working and living in Naples for years – to shoot the campaign for it on our beloved Ischia (home to Mezzatorre!) in the Gulf of Naples.
The Green Island has long been a place of inspiration, beauty, and effortless Mediterranean flare – all aspects the Scholl x ISSIMO collab captures, one clog at a time. Making this lush destination the background for the collection felt like a natural choice, but also an opportunity to give Ischia that extra love and attention it deserves.
The images, as you can see, speak for themselves. Sun-dappled beaches, quaint small-town living, and a perfect mix of lido-chic and laid-back cool show Ischia in all its eclectic, idyllic splendour – the ideal scenery to spotlight our shoes, which, through their fun palette, gorgeous materials and cool-casual aesthetic offer a fresh reimagination of a classic, and the epitome of effortless summer style.
Curious to know more about how this partnership came about? Then hear all about it from Tobias Klaiber, CEO of Scholl.
How would you describe the collaboration with ISSIMO?
The “Modern Dolce Vita”: The pure love for Italy. It’s such a great collaboration on all levels, as it combines craftsmanship with the love for details and style. Nothing says Italian retro-chic summer quite like this capsule.
How did you work with Marie-Louise to bring a twist to the classic Scholl?
Marie-Louise had a very clear viewpoint from the first meeting. We played with some ideas and tried out some styles until we were happy, and pushed the boundaries with suppliers as we are introducing some new finishes and material combinations we haven’t had in a collection so far.
As we both have a common passion for high quality material, timeless aesthetic and the ambition of elevating original icons, this collaboration felt perfect from the start.
Scholl has been making shoes in Italy for over 60 years. Why Italy? What are your thoughts on Italian craftsmanship?
Italians are amongst the best shoemakers in the world and that’s the simple reason.
All our shoes are designed in Milan, and the majority of our collections are handcrafted in Italy. All wooden styles are made 100% here, too, which makes us very proud.
We are excited to launch a collection that not only refines the original model but also celebrates its history.
Do you have a favourite model from the capsule collection?
That’s hard to answer! The capsule comes in a timeless colour palette that is highly versatile and adaptable to any situation, so I guess it comes down to the occasion? Very personally, I think the velvet style is extraordinary.
Why do you think people keep turning to Scholl when it comes to footwear?
It has something to do with the uniqueness of Scholl. There is no other brand out there that combines such an aesthetic appeal and being comfortable at the same time. Our shoes are good looking and easy to walk in. That’s part of our heritage, and what we aim to achieve with every shoe we produce.
Who’s the Scholl – and the Scholl x ISSIMO – customer?
We inspire our audience in an inclusive way. [Our customers] exist in every society, regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, political preferences, or cultural backgrounds. They are at the forefront of contemporary culture. They are seeking self-expression and are constantly overcoming boundaries.
Tell us a bit about Scholl's efforts towards sustainability.
Sustainability is one of the core assets of the brand. We use mainly sustainable materials such as FSC certified wood and cork, designed and handcrafted in Europe, to create a clog that is in contrast to fast fashion. Twenty-years old Scholl clogs can still be in good condition and wearable today, because all our products are handmade and of high quality. This reflects the current zeitgeist and our values. And of course, all Scholl x ISSIMO styles are handmade in Italy.
What are your summer plans? Where will you be travelling to?
When you have the privilege to live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, there is no need to spend long-haul hours on planes. I will be spending this summer across Italy, from weekend trips to the close lakes to some relaxing days at the seaside in southern Italy.
