Shoe and Tell with Alexa Wagner

It's not every day heels this gorgeous are born, and by a gorgeous woman no less. Alexa Wagner's collection of candy-colored heels and sleek patent boots are not just made to look stunning, though, they're also made for walking. We caught up with the German-born Wagner, who now lives in Milan, when she was here in New York for fashion week.

JC Report: What was your "Aha!" moment, the one when you realized you had to be a shoe designer?

Alexa Wagner: The "aha" moment was four years ago in August. After working in the commercial part of the fashion business, I realized that I needed to exercise my love of shape, textiles and function—for the foot.

JCR: What is it about shoes that inspires you?

AW: I'm fascinated by the fact that a pair of heels can dramatically change a woman's behavior. I personally like the point where elegance, class and a pinch of sex appeal all meet.

JCR: What is your favorite shoe for s/s '08? And for a/w '08?

AW: My favorite shoe in the s/s 2008 collection is the Harriet, a great walking sandal. At the moment, I am in love with a lot of styles in the new a/w 2008 collection but I would say the Ingrid boot—it is a knee-high stretch crocodile with a low heel... a must-have!

JCR: If you could trade shoes with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be?

AW: If you mean with whom I would like to work, then André Perugia, for me he was the shoe designer. But if you mean who I would like to see wearing my shoes then the lovely actress Romy Schneider.

JCR: What are the design elements that distinguish Alexa Wagner shoes from other labels?

AW: Probably I am not that objective, but I will say that my shoes are conceived and designed by a woman for women to emphasize their beauty while paying attention to the needs of their feet and their bodies. The designs have strict lines but also a sense of playfulness, too.