It's in the bag with Monica Botkier of Botkier

Eponymous Line:
Monica Botkier, a native to New York City, stepped into the fashion industry in 2003 working as a fashion photographer shooting for magazines such as Surface and Mademoiselle. Using her developed photographers eye for detail, artistry and key functionality and inspired by her busy, downtown NYC lifestyle, Monica designed and produced her first handbag collection with critical acclaim.

This year, to celebrate Botkier's 5-year anniversary, Monica unveiled her footwear collection. “Shoes are a perfect compliment to handbags,” offers Botkier, “and a close second in terms of a personal obsession for me.”


The Botkier design philosophy:
Botkier has created a niche in the market where there was a void, an approachable designer brand. Botkier accessories embody luxury through custom detailing, innovation and quality while focusing on functionality and reality for the modern woman.

Botkier in 5 words:
Downtown. Chic. Edgy. Sexy. Functional.

What inspired Fall/Winter 2008?
“The collection balances urban chic and opulent details. The spirit of a modern and complex woman inspires the bold shoes and handbags. The dark, moody palette is highlighted with luscious metallics.”

And your favorite shoe?
“Fall 08 “Mimi” boot in brown stamped snakeskin – they look totally real!”


What are you most enthusiastic about for spring 2009?
“Sexy platform sandals in great multi color multi texture leathers.”

“For spring 09, the “Elena” ruffle platform sandal in ivory with printed croc and snake is my favorite – gorgeous!,” Botkier confides.


Theme song for spring 2009:
MGMT — ‘Electric Feel’


Who wears your shoes?
“Michelle Trachtenberg is a fan, as is Joy Bryant and Scarlet Johansen.” Hillary Duff, Angelina Jolie, Heidi Klum and Rihanna have all been spotted carrying Botkier bags.



Any design collaborations at present?
Botkier just finished her “Wizard of Oz” ruby red slipper project in conjunction with the films’ 70th anniversary, and Saks Fifth Avenue. “This was a dream project, every little girl grows up with Dorothy in one way or another and those ruby red slippers make quite an impression,” adds Botkier. “We wanted to give that shoe the sophistication and sex appeal that as a woman we want from our footwear.”

“It’s a statement about the mix between sweet and sexy. The nod to the bow on the side playfully reveals the side of the foot while the red crystals in various shades of red are quite evening, but the chunky heel and platform keep it edgy and downtown.”

Best collaboration of all:
My second baby is due near Thanksgiving!

What is your favorite vacation spot?
With shoes in lovely dust bags, tucked in her suitcase, Botkier loves St. Barth. “We had a real fun and rugged trip there last holiday where every day my husband, my daughter and myself would jump into the Suzuki jeep and explore new beaches. She is only 3 and still talks about it!”

Do you support any specific charities?
Madison Square Girls and Boys Club, Pope's Kid's Place: www.popeskidsplace.org

Where to find Botkier?
Visit Botkier’s website for the season’s must-haves.