Every shoe lover has heard of (and most likely owns many pairs of) Nine West shoes. The runway-to-reality brand is the staple of many of our closets but what do we know about the man behind the brand? RWH had an opportunity to sit down with the shoe label’s Creative Director, Fred Allard, to shoot the shoe for a bit:

How did you get into shoe design? What inevitably brought you to Nine West?

My father was the Creative Director and designer for Charles Jourdan, so I grew up with a great appreciation for design and the technical work that goes into shoe production.  I also attended design school in Paris and worked in a shoe factory to gain experience and gained a great respect for those behind the work.  After working in the European market for all sorts of brands including Stephan Kelian and Castaner, I wanted to switch gears and come to the American market which is what brought me to Nine West, where I could work with footwear as well as accessories and expand globally.

What inspires you most when designing for Nine West? What keeps things interesting for you?

Everything inspires me! I love movies, art, music, architecture, etc.  I also love to see how women put their outfits together.  Their creativity is so inspiring. I just love to create and every season there’s something fresh and new to work with; materials, trends, color – it never gets old for me!

What is your favorite trend of the fall/winter season when it comes to shoes? What are some of your favorite styles from the fall 2009 collection?

I really love the over-the-knee boot trend; it’s just so chic and wearable.  My favorite styles this season are the IUNIA thigh high boot, the JURRA wedged wallaby and the FAÇADE studded bootie.

Do you have a favorite material when designing shoes? What about a favorite style (boot, pump, sandal, etc?)

<Laughs>I don’t choose favorites!  As far as materials go, I really like discovering new materials, things that are unexpected. When it comes to a favorite style of shoe, I think every woman should own a chic flat, a good pair of boots, a sophisticated pump, a platform sandal, and a fun sneaker.  Those are the bare necessities.

In your opinion, what is the sexiest shoe a woman can own?

A high heeled platform sandal.  The platform of the shoe elongates the body and makes the shoe more stable and comfortable. It’s really a win-win: not only are you more comfortable but it makes you look tall and sexy!

What is your favorite pair of shoes that you own?

I would have to say my Pierre Hardy sneakers.

Can you tell us a little about what to expect from the spring 2010 collection?

I can’t give away my secrets!  You will just have to wait and see. But here’s just a little hint: lots of sheen and mixed metallics.