Surrealism in stilettos

High heels like fur. But they also like to be draped in fabric as heavy as theatre curtains. Yes, it’s almost Mardi Gras but that’s just a coincidence, because Chi-Lai Yuen’s shoes are an ode to surrealism.

Photo © Alejandro Cavallo

"Breakfast in Fur" by Oppenheim, "The Lovers" by Magritte, "Persistence of Memory" by Dalì. What do all these famous works have in common with Chi Yuen’s footwear?

Photo © Alejandro Cavallo

Perhaps a predilection for misplacement, an openness towards new ways of sensing the world through the juxtaposition of unexpected materials and textures.

Photo © Alejandro Cavallo

Chi-Lai ("cherry" in Chinese), is a young English shoe designer born and raised in Hong Kong. She graduated at Cordwainer’s College in London with a Master of Arts in Fashion Footwear and has experience working in women’s fashion.
Photo © Alejandro Cavallo

She has worked for Celine, Alexander Wang, Pollini and Nicholas Kirkwood and her designs have been displayed at fashion shows and galleries in Japan and the USA.

Photo © Alejandro Cavallo

This collection was presented at the University of Arts in London where Chi-Lai is following a Master’s in Fashion Footwear.
Photo © Alejandro Cavallo

What does a good design entail for her? A combination of simplicity and innovative ideas, produced at the highest quality and with luxurious materials.

Photo © Alejandro Cavallo


Photo © Alejandro Cavallo


Photo © Alejandro Cavallo


Photo © Andrei Zach


Photo © Andrei Zach


Photo © Andrei Zach


Photo © Andrei Zach


Photo © Andrei Zach


Photo © Andrei Zach


Photo © Andrei Zach

Photo © Andrei Zach

Photo © Andrei Zach

Photos via chiyuen.co.uk