Though Kurt Geiger now has more than 70 stores worldwide — and mini-boutiques in over 170 prestigious department stores, including Harrods and Selfridges — the iconic label is, at its heart, a London brand. Founded in 1963 on Bond Street, Britain’s fashion epicentre, the design house has evolved into an international footwear and accessories powerhouse over the years, while always remaining true to its London roots.
“We draw inspiration from the energy and spirit of the city; its diversity and creativity”, says the Kurt Geiger design team. “Our city is our heartbeat. London is in the fabric of our products and the expressive nature of our designs.”
With fresh ideas from the streets, Creative Director Rebecca Farrar-Hockley provides the vision, channelling the vanguard esprit of the brand’s original namesake, legendary Austrian designer Kurt Geiger, while boldly moving the fashion forward. “Excess is unapologetic in the form of crystal embellishment, exaggerated bows, an abundance of pearls, and vintage-inspired hand-sewn appliques”, says Farrar-Hockley of the aesthetic. “A tiny glitter bag in the shape of a heart can be worn as jewellery, with platform wedges so high your head will be in the clouds!”
Powered by kindness and creativity
Known for its comfortable high heels and signature rainbow design, Kurt Geiger has a mission to empower customers with authentic urban style that’s both wearable and accessible. The rainbow, to that end, “represents the good energy and love we have for our community and the many ways we collectively express our individual style”, the designers say.
Above all, what drives the brand is an inclusive, creative vision informed by kindness. “No matter where you are in the world”, the company says, “we want to embolden our customers to be true to themselves and confident, the London way”.
As part of that mission, Kurt Geiger is committed to diversity and equality, with a team that’s over 80% female. Carvela, the refined footwear and accessories label under the Kurt Geiger umbrella, is designed ‘for generation fearless’ by a talented all-female team.
Since the start of the pandemic, the company has also launched the We Are One collection, donating 100% of the profits to NHS Charities Together, which supports the well-being and mental health of NHS workers. And to further empower the community, Kurt Geiger offers discounts to students, military, NHS heroes.
Over the rainbow
Kurt Geiger’s colourful signature aesthetic is on full display in this year’s Party Pochette, an event-ready bag encrusted in blue jewels, with a large rainbow heart that lets everyone know you love and support the heroes at the NHS — all profits from its sale are donated to NHS Charities Together. The brand has also upgraded its classic Fabric Mini Kensington Bag in a fun multi-coloured ombre, with a scrunched fabric strap studded with silver jewels.
If you want to go even bolder with your rainbow this season, try the fluffy Poppy Scarf, which will wrap you in a cosy hug of colourful faux fur, with a loop that keeps it securely in place, whether you’re dancing at the club or skiing the slopes. Pair it with these stylish high-legged Bird Knee Lace Up Boots in smooth black leather, with pointed gunmetal eyelets, red-stitched soles and an inside zip.
Tomorrow’s trends
At the Kurt Geiger design studios on London’s Britton Street, rainbows and kindness are always in. And when it comes to staying ahead of the style curve, for Farrar-Hockley, inspiration has never been a problem. “I don’t ever seem to run out of ideas”, she says. “I travel all the time — every other week. I’ll be in Milan, Paris, Florence, New York, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. I photograph and look at people.”
So what’s the next big thing in fashion? “Platforms are bigger and better than ever, and look to be key for spring/summer 2022”, she says. “Our Vegan Franky heels amalgamate a towering block heel and platform with a hot-pink satin upper for extra impact. These are party shoes with punch.”
And once you’ve stocked up on some rainbow flare for the holiday season and beyond, be sure to make your Kurt Geiger purchase with Amazon Pay for a simple, seamless checkout experience.