Cole Haan Taps its Artistic Side

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A few weeks ago we sat down with Cole Haan to take a peek at their spring/summer 2010 collection of footwear. Besides the usual leather pumps with Nike Air soles, they're also getting in touch with a more creative side. First off, their entire ad campaign was shot by Todd Selby ("The Selby"), featuring real (pretty) people wearing the company's accessories in everyday situations. If you're the kind of person who wears platform heels to bake cookies, that is. (We kind of like to pretend we're that kind of person sometimes.) Either way, leafing through their spring lookbook is somewhat of a visual treat, and you can see the fruits of The Selby's photographic labor on Cole Haan's website.

Shoe-wise, we think the pastel-colored oxfords and metallic sandals are worth a second look. Also, the aforementioned platform heels. As neutral leather accessories come back into play as a hot item for spring this year, Cole Haan is a worthwhile company to turn to.

Creatively, the company is rolling out a new Cole Haan FLX collection composed of men's and women's footwear and accessories that are re-worked for a more modern careerperson, especially one who travels or commutes a lot. The summer shoes are stretchier to make them easier to pop on and off, made from lighter materials to make them easier to carry around, and feature breathable footbeds that can actually be popped out and flipped over making them easier to keep, well, fresh. For someone who needs to make one pair of shoes last during an entire business trip, from airport to meeting, this is actually a utilitarian collection—and considering the $78 to $128 price points, they don't really require a generous investment. Of course, the collection contains a lot of comfortable sandals and flats, making them pretty much off-limits to those with strict office dress codes. But don't break out your wallets just yet—the shoes won't hit stores until May.
· Cole Haan [Official Site]
· Todd Selby [Official Site]