Take 5 with Abel Munoz

Toronto-based designer Abel Munoz's shoes are hand-crafted in Italy using high-quality materials and a touch of old-school romance. Munoz trained at the famous ARS Arpel Institute of Shoes and Accessories and Design in Milan. He draws inspiration from the artisanal work of Italian shoe designers of the 1930s and 1940s who created shoes before mass industrial production existed. His current line of shoes is inspired by the silver screen starlets of the golden age of cinema.  We got Abel Munoz to "Take 5" for ShoesTV.

What inspired you to become a shoe designer?

I’ve been interested in accessories design and all facets of design all of my life.  Since I can remember, footwear design has always been on my mind.  I guess I always wanted to design shoes.

Elizabeth

How did your studies in Italy impact your design philosophy?

As I continue to expand, develop and produce collections in Italy, my work is influenced by spending time and working with my Italian teams season after season. The collections are entirely made in Italy and focus on the highest standard of quality materials. The impeccable construction, workmanship and in-depth attention to detail is unparalleled.

What is your background?

I am Latin American. I was born in Costa Rica. I moved to Canada at the age of 21. I started studying Fashion Quality Control in Costa Rica and finished my schooling as a Graphic Designer in Toronto, Canada.

What kind of woman do you see in your shoes?

The type of woman that I design for is the woman who wants to be different and  is strong and independent. She is not afraid of investing money in something new, unusual and fashion-forward.

Tell me about the current line. How did you pick classic movie stars as an inspiration?

The Fall\Winter 2011 collection is inspired by the classic silver screen’s female stars. These leading ladies played a role in the women’s movement and were key to the evolution of fashion. Each sparked trends that influenced generations to come.

If you were packing for a trip around the world, what 5 pairs of shoes would you bring?

I would bring Veronica, Cosma, Josephine, Elettra and Marlene.

Veronica

Cosma