Recently, we had the unique opportunity to interview the iconic, legendary, charismatic and visionary Zandra Rhodes, the British designer known for the past forty years as a driving force from London. She was amongst the original designers who put London on the map in the late 1960s as the Mod generation took over the stodgy looks that were a staple of post-World War II London. Her palette was shocking and sensational. She envisioned the world through rainbow slashes of color and unique designs to create wearable art. 
As her design images became her fashion stamp, she created unique ensembles for the late Princess of Wales, Princess Diana, and to this day her artfully crafted fashions for the rich, famous and loyally individual conscious women of the world. Prince Phillip of the United Kingdom bestowed the honor of Royal Designer for Industry in the UK and then Zandra Rhodes received the much-revered title of CBE (Commander of the British Empire) by Queen Elizabeth in 1977. In addition, Ms. Rhodes is the holder of six honorary doctoral degrees.
Now, in 2009, Zandra took some of her best signature looks to the feet! A dress does not stop at the hem and a full look should include the footwear that governs the frame of the style. Ian O’Connor, president of Strutt Couture—a trend-setting British brand shoe brand—teamed up with Zandra for their Spring 2010 collection. The result is astounding and sensational. Strutt Couture was already an established label with a fan base that included Kate Moss, Sienna Miller and Gwen Stefani, amongst myriad others, when the collaboration was incepted by O’Connor and Rhodes.
As we approached the booth for our interview with Ms. Rhodes, the female half of our team became absolutely mesmerized by Zandra. Ms. Rhodes’ bright fuchsia hair, crystal studded black round glasses and warm and gracious nature was a key in making this a very smooth and enlightening interview/profile session. Her warmth just gives further credence to her colorful and innovative work and designs. Her newest footwear for Strutt Couture includes booties on platforms, open-toed, and incorporating some of Zandra’s famous touches—angled, open slits backed with gold, all dramatic, unique and wearable! The shoes will be made in Brazil, famous for its fine leathers and workmanship. This will keep prices in the $200.00 range, instead of so many pricier designers who run up to $1,500.00 for a pair of their latest additions to the world of shoes.
©2009 Lucille Thaler and Tony Zanoff
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The above article is the opinion of the author and not necessarily the opinion of Vegas Community Online, its editors/publishers, and/or other Vegas Community Online columnists. VCO respects the right of each author to express their opinion. If you have an opposing viewpoint or would like to send feedback on any article, please send email to feedback@vegascommunityonline.com; state the title of the article and your comments. VCO reserves the right to add any submissions to its feedback page.