There’s nothing shy about Jerome C. Rousseau’s shoe designs. They sparkle with come-hither, sky-high heels in innovative shapes, lush metallic leathers, and boldly hued suedes impeccably stitched into intricate patterns.
And yet to interview the soft-spoken and humble Quebec-born designer, you’d never think that his masterpieces had graced the pages of every fashion pub from Elle to Vogue. Or that he’d sharpened his design know-how in London and Los Angeles working at houses like Matthew Williamson and John Rocha before launching his own eponymous line. Or that since doing so he’s dressed the feet of every A-list celeb from Cameron Diaz to Charlize Theron. And no wonder—his mannerisms, warmth, and accent (a lilting combination of French Canadian and British) all seem to conspire to make the person he’s talking to feel as beautiful as possible. Pretty much exactly like his shoes do.
They’re the perfect shoes for a big night out this holiday, and we proudly carry them at Gretta Luxe. We caught up with Rousseau to talk shoes, and his inspirations—which run the gamut from modern art and pop culture to nightlife.
Q: Let’s start with your favorite styles that Gretta bought for Gretta Luxe’s current stock.
A: Oh, I love so many! It’s a great and smart mix of low to high heels, and all are what I call trans-seasonal, meaning they could all be fall or winter shoes. They could all be special occasion or worn with denim too. Each is perfect to invest in now and wear throughout winter.
Q: Is there a quintessential shape you always lean toward in designing?
A: Really my shoes are all very different, but a very recognizable one is the thorn heel. I have it in two heights that Gretta has bought—both very beautiful and very, very versatile. It has energized curves and points, and is very chic.
Q: How about for low-heel lovers?
A: There is a pointed flat that Gretta bought for Gretta Luxe that has a short block heel; it’s inspired by the ‘60s stars like Brigitte Bardot. It’s a fun and sophisticated little pump that’s casual but still feels dressy.
Q: And for evening, is there a standout winner in your opinion?
A: There’s a high heeled, black silk sandal called Leroy, which has become a real staple on the red carpet. It has a clear vinyl strap with ornate metal beads on the top, and I think it’s a very interesting way of doing ornamentation on an evening shoe. Scarlet Johansson just recently wore it with a Stella McCartney dress that was very much all about the leg, and she could not have looked more beautiful.
Q: The women who wear your shoes are so devoted; what do you think it is that they love so much?
A: I’m so grateful that my work resonates with women. I just think I’m very personally passionate about my work, you know, and I’m so happy that enthusiasm is contagious.
