With Hogan slated to make its e-commerce return to the States in February 2015, creative director Simon Holloway‘s designs will be easier to nab in one place. This will be the first time the entire Hogan collection will be available on their own site in the U.S. since 2009. The Italian brand churns out covetable collections of Holloway-designed ready-to-wear, bags, and shoes, and the multitalented Brit, who’s also a Jimmy Choo alum, divulges his shoe obsessions and what Italians do best.
Hogan started in 1986 with a sneaker inspired by a cricket shoe. Do you design more sneakers or heels now?
The Hogan collection is a full shoe wardrobe, encompassing sneakers, sandals, boots, flat, high so the design process is very balanced. We do everything, but always in a way that is innovative, great quality, stylish, and very Hogan.
How do you approach your design process?
I always design total looks in my head even if I’m only working on a shoe. It’s all a design process with different applications, proportions, and techniques, but it’s always a challenge and that’s what makes this work exciting.
What’s your favorite shoe trend at the moment?
I’m slightly obsessed with wedges! Hogan is so innovative that we can make extremely lightweight wedges, both flat and high, for sandals and sneakers. It’s a brilliant way to play with proportion with the guarantee of comfort.
Aside from e-commerce, what’s next on the docket for Hogan?
We’ve been working with the London-based artist Julie Verhoeven. She’s a good friend and a pleasure to collaborate with, as she always provides an eccentric contrast to the collection. There are amazing shift dresses and tote bags that are printed with her gorgeous prints in the Spring collection, like collectors’ items. We are also launching the Hogan Club, a nomadic pop-up club concept designed by Hogan, possibly coming soon to a city near you!
Hogan is an Italian brand. What are some of your favorite Italian things?
My favorite thing about Italy is the people: they’re so welcoming, open, and friendly. I also love Italian food; it’s so pure and tasty. I never get bored of eating dinner in Milan! And I love Italian tailoring. The fit and craftsmanship is the best in the world.
You’re a dual citizen of the U.S. and the U.K. What are some of your favorite things to do in both places?
I’ve spent most of my time between New York and London, so I’ve been lucky enough to be surrounded by all of the amazing culture of both cities. Both are so rich in museums, contemporary art, and street culture. It’s very inspiring! In New York, it’s great to go to nice dinners and chic bars for cocktails. In London, I love to walk in the beautiful parks and go for a pint at a pub!
What’s your favorite thing that you can only get in the U.S.?
So many things! I have to say, I love a simple BLT from a good diner. But I also love all of the healthy food that’s available in the U.S. They do it better than anywhere else.
KELSEY MCMULLIN
