Not only has Zayn had a successful debut as a solo musician, he is also making a huge mark on the fashion world. His personal style has grown tremendously and his clothes portray a certain sense of individualism we all strive to have.
Set to be sold in the US and Europe, Zayn Malik has collaborated with shoe designer, Giuseppe Zanotti, to make four pairs of shoes that are to die for. The line includes two styles of boots and two styles of sneakers that vary in colors from green, to all black, to brown. The collection will hit select stores on January 28th, 2017.
According to Vogue, Giuseppe Zanotti and Zayn met at Paris Fashion Week in 2015. According to Zanotti, he says, “When I saw him, I said to myself: ‘He is a cool guy and the epitome of a modern rebel,’ ” Giuseppe Zanotti has worked with big names such as Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez and he also has collaborated with big brands such as Dior and Vera Wang.
In his interview with Vogue, Giuseppe Zanotti also added, “I like to work with musicians because we share a very similar vision. … [Zayn and I] have always had an appreciation for one another, but it was during our first encounter in Paris that we realized we had a similar attitude and approach: iconic, edgy, and expressive. Zayn’s bold and individualistic vision, easy coolness, and love for fashion mean a lot to me.”
Vogue also had the chance to have an exclusive interview with Zayn, talking about his personal style, his inspirations, and his new shoe line.
How did the idea for a shoe collaboration with Giuseppe Zanotti come about?
When Mr. Zanotti and I first met at Paris Fashion Week last year we realized that even though what we each do, music and shoe design, could be seen as worlds apart, we had a lot in common in how we approach and style them. I like things which are a bit dark and weird, and Mr. Zanotti isn’t afraid to play with those elements either. The process of designing my collection has been really fun as a result!Most of the shoes you designed together have a boot-like silhouette and come in neutral colors—why did you gravitate toward this style?
I wanted to mix up the iconic rock ’n’ roll styles like boots, which are quite hard, with organic colors. I think the mix makes them feel quite classic.What were some of your inspirations for the designs?
I’m always sketching down ideas and designs. I draw and paint a lot, so when it came to the shoes, I think that the ideas were already in my mind, somewhere. It was just a matter of putting them together. I take influence from everything I see, and I think when you look at all of the things I make from music, my merchandise, and these shoes that they all have a darker aesthetic.Your fashion star is rising with your Zanotti collaboration and your upcoming one with Versus Versace—why is fashion something you’re interested in pursuing?
Like I said earlier, I love to design and I can’t see that suddenly stopping! Fashion, like music, reaches everyone and has turned out to be another outlet for me. I’m so excited about learning from Mr. Zanotti and his team, plus Donatella Versace and her team.What’s your personal style motto? How do you define your personal style?
I don’t think I have a motto really. For me fashion and style is very personal and rather than following trends I like to mix a few timeless pieces with whatever makes me feel good!
Taking on the fashion industry can be a huge leap for many musicians. Zayn has proven he is ready to tackle something new and brand himself as a style icon. We are already loving this shoe line and we can’t wait to see what he will reveal, in partnership with Versus Versace, in February.