Charles Jourdan Back from Dead

Christian Lacroix may be in talks with potential financiers about resurrecting his recently bankrupt brand -- but in the meantime, there's another briefly demised French fashion house making a comeback. Charles Jourdan, the iconic footwear purveyor that enjoyed its heyday in the 60s and 70s (but dates back to the days of Coco Chanel), is back. And for the relaunch, the company has enlisted the help of seasoned shoe designer Alexandra Neel who cut her teeth at the likes of Balenciaga and Celine.

Given Charles Jourdan’s reputation, not to mention Neel’s sartorial background, it’s likely that the shoes in question will be far from demure. Expect punched-up colors in party-appropriate styles and heights. Neel is hoping to bring some innovation to boot: “I try to do something very different for stiletto addicts who are looking for something other than [the] usual,” she told Elle UK of her new approach. Neel’s debut collection launches at Paris Fashion Week in October. In the meantime, designer shoe lovers can brace for the release of the fourth season of Pierre Hardy for Gap. Considering the leaked images of the three shoe styles look extremely good, prospective shoppers should definitely mark their calendars for the mid-September launch as pairs are sure to sell out just like seasons past.