Maud Frizon was a french shoe designer know for her sequined mules, patent leather wedges, and python working girl pumps. We were recently trying to come up with shoe references for our upcoming show and I thought about the great Maud. If only there was a store for Maud Frizon suede and sequin deadstock. The amazing thing about her shoes was the combination of expensive materials next to inexpensive embellishment. Suede next to plastic sequins, wood next to python, canvas next to satin, leather next to cheap lace. She took inspiration from the late and great shoe legend Beth Levine (Beth invented the mule, the haute couture boot, and clear plastic shoes). I once ate a tuna fish sandwich with Beth at Ruth Finley's lunch group in the early 2000's. Both Beth and Maud had an eye for applique, and worked with cutting leather away from the pattern to expose more of the naked foot. Maud Frizon was post Beth Levine but pre Manolo Blahnik. Someone needs to bring back the house of Maud Frizon.
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When I first saw Maude Frison shoes on Union St. in San Francisco early 1980's I was captivated beyond belief. Each shoe was a graceful, artistically fluid sculpture; sensual in colors and details that amused and beckoned me. I worked in the neighborhood and was regularly stopping in to fulfill my aesthetic craving to hold and admire the shoes. Fortunately the women working there totally understood my fixation and joined in my admiration though I could not afford to buy a pair. My first love ever for the finest in shoe design.
ReplyDeleteMaud Frizon!!!!! OMG I spelled it as I did to search the net for her shoes tonight! Forgive me ! It's been 30 years since I have seen a pair :)
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