Designer Spotlight on ANYI LU

May 17, 2009 by cinder
Filed under Designer Spotlight

: Anyi Lu, rising star in women’s footwear.

ANYI LU footwear evokes the art and refinement of a bygone era. Designer, Anyi Lu insists on the highest quality and attention to detail. The style and discreet luxury of the ANYI LU brand is coveted by sophisticated women everywhere.

As a child, Anyi had always wanted to be surrounded by fashion and art. Her grandfather, an army general, taught her Chinese calligraphy and brush painting. These arts demand precision and creativity – a balance between technical and imagination.

Her traditional education led to the highly technical field of chemical engineering. She worked for Blue chip companies: Chevron and Dupont. During this time, Anyi was also a competitive ballroom dancer. Her favorite dance was the Rumba, the dance of love. “Dancing is like acting – the music and the motion transform me into a different person – to an exotic place with a person I am passionate about.”

But, it was her sister’s wedding that would alter Anyi’s future. Anyi’s sister needed a pair of comfortable shoes to dance in at the reception. It occurred to Anyi that women always need two different shoes. One for LOOKING. One for DOING. It seemed like looking great AND feeling great was not an option. She gave her sister a pair of ballroom dance shoes to wear – and Anyi’s mission was born.

From Anyi’s experience as a competitive dancer, she knew all dance shoes must have fit, support, and flexibility. This basis inspired her to design shoes with these elements combined with old world Italian craftsmanship and high fashion looks and colors.

Anyi brings her technical insight and attention to detail and blends it with her creative vision to design an innovative collection of shoes. Anyi has created a brand that allows women everywhere to celebrate the joy of wear.

shuzsociety had the opportunity to get to know Anyi Lu a little better …

shuzsociety: Who is the designer or team behind the brand?
Anyi Lu: I am the one and only designer. I started designing shoes when I founded the company in 2005.

shuzsociety: What is your design philosophy?
Anyi Lu: I am a working mom and I want to look good when I’m racing around on the weekend or going to a business meeting. I try never to forget that I’m designing for real women who want to live their lives in style and ease.

shuzsociety: List 5 words that describe your design style.
Anyi Lu: Discreet. Luxury. Chic. Elegant. Classic.

shuzsociety: What are you most enthusiastic about for spring 2009?
Anyi Lu: I am very enthusiastic about the TULIP for spring ‘09. It’s an open toe sling back that is really resonating with women. It’s flying off the shelves!

shuzsociety: Which celebrity or political figure do you envision wearing your shoes?
Anyi Lu: If Grace Kelly or Katherine Hepburn were alive today, I’d love to see them in my designs.

shuzsociety: Are you supporting a specific charity or cause?
Anyi Lu: I support the Wounded Warrior Project and the Red Cross.

shuzsociety: What are you reading right now?
Anyi Lu: I can usually be found reading Chinese historical novels.

shuzsociety: What is YOUR personal favorite pair of shoes?
Anyi Lu: My designs are like my children and I don’t like to play favorites.

shuzsociety: How do you pack your shoes for travel? Any tips?
Anyi Lu: I pack my shoes in ANYI LU dust bags.

shuzsociety: What is your favorite vacation spot? And why!
Anyi Lu: Currently I love to vacation in Hawaii – the natural beauty is inspiring.

The Anyi Lu collection is available at Nordstom and online at Nordstrom.com and Arthur Beren.

: ANYI LU “Peony” Pump

Buckled peep toe styles a chic Italian pump fashioned in a contemporary two-tone silhouette with croc-embossed detailing along one half. Handcrafted construction with perforated arch support ensures all-day comfort.