Salvatore Ferragamo, the Italian luxury fashion house, is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Andrew to the position of Design Director, Women’s Footwear, effective immediately.

Salvatore Ferragamo has continued to strengthen its core footwear business and remain at the forefront of the industry since its inception in 1927. The arrival of Paul Andrew, a leading talent of his generation, further illustrates the commitment of the house to innovative and creative design.

Ferruccio Ferragamo, President of Salvatore Ferragamo S.p.A. stated: “We are excited to welcome such a dynamic and established talent into the Ferragamo company. We have a proud history of nurturing design talent and we believe that Paul’s credo very much matches the spirit at the heart of our house. Salvatore Ferragamo’s journey has been distinctly marked by its commitment to traditional Italian craftsmanship, quality of material and innovative luxury design. Shaping many of today’s stylistic and aesthetic codes in footwear, the brand’s pioneering spirit has resulted in iconic inventions that represent landmarks in women’s fashion, including the cork wedge and the stiletto heel. Together with Paul, we look forward to continuing our celebration of women and outstanding design, and writing a new chapter in our history.”

Paul Andrew said: “Salvatore Ferragamo has been an iconic reference for shoe design and craftsmanship for nearly a century. It is a great honor to be invited to lead the creative vision for the future of its women’s shoe division, where the legend began. I look forward to bringing a new perspective to the company in line with the demands of today’s marketplace, marrying the power of its heritage and industrial force with high design and the latest innovations in material and make.”

Paul Andrew founded his eponymous footwear brand in 2013 and rose quickly as a creative force in the industry. In 2014, he was named winner of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, becoming the first footwear designer to receive the top honor. Recognized for his innovative use of color and material and his unique technical skill set, Paul has continued his commitment to maintaining exceptional fit, comfort, and luxury quality, married with beautiful and desirable design. These characteristics strongly echo those of Salvatore Ferragamo and continue to underpin the heritage of the company today.

Paul Andrew’s first collection for Salvatore Ferragamo will debut for Pre-Fall 2017/18. In addition to his new role in the company, he will continue to design for his namesake brand.