Spring is on its way — not that you would know it on the East Coast — and so is Alice In Wonderland, Tim Burton’s latest masterpiece. While it may just seem like a simple movie release, it definitely isn’t. It’s going to be a key influence throughout the year in the world of fashion. We’re already seeing allusions to Wonderland style, from cropped White Rabbit-esque jackets to fob watches and super-feminine, tulle skirts. Believe me when I say that you’ll be seeing a lot more of this surreal and psychedelic-but-demure aesthetic! 
 
So when I saw Girly Girl Shoes‘ latest releases — a collection of crystal-embellished ballet flats in bright candy colors as well as some daring metallic heels, I knew they were perfectly on-trend. I had a quick chat with Nicole Woo, the designer of Girly Girl Shoes, to see where she gets her inspiration, who she designs for, and what’s next…

How long has Girly Girl Shoes been in existence?

Nicole Woo: Girly Girl has been in existence for one year now. We created the brand out of nowhere! So this is really exciting for us!

What did you do before? What did you do before, and how did you get started?

Nicole: I have been bretahing fashion for aas long as I can remember! Always an avid subscriber of fashion magazines such as Vogue, Elle since I was a young teen, when my peers only read Cosmogirl and Seventeen! Then I took some art classes in high school and decided I wanted to make fashion my life! So I enrolled in F.I.D.M. and have worked in various fashion companies during my years there and after graduation. I started interning at LA fashion week and showrooms during school and after I graduated, I got my first gig working at a clothing company where we designed for Victoria’s Secret, Target, and other brands.
Then I also designed shoes for Steve Madden and Ed Hardy before coming to Girly Girl.

Tell me what inspired your latest collection.

Nicole: I fancy an eclectic mix of colors, and different colors can say a lot about your mood, so I envisioned Spring to be more cheerful, and fun, finally moving from the dreary cold weather. I couldn’t wait to put on some bright kicks to match my mood! Also, a variety of colors do wonders because all black shoes will look the same 20ft away, but when it’s teal, or metallic silver, it will not look like the other girl’s shoes. Nowadays, celebrities like Lady Gaga also inspire some of this style, as bold, colorful and shiny is becoming more and more popular, so metallic colors are a hit! I definitely get to go wild with my creativity and colors more!

What kind of girl do you design for?

Nicole: Girly Girl is designed for the unique and trendy fashionista, who loves to take risks in fashion by making a strong statement with color and style.
Sexy girls who aren’t afraid to stand out, be different and steal the show. We like to have fun, party and meet people and so should the girls who wear Girly Girl.

Is there anyone who you’d absolutely love to see in your shoes?

Nicole: I’d love to see Jessica Alba in Girly Girl, she’s sexy and feminine, but could pass for the girl next door. Miley Cyrus is so cute too. Avril Lavigne has a distinctive style and Taylor Swift is really pretty. Mandy Moore and Blake Lively are so sweet! Lady Gaga should totally wear our metallic heels!

Who are your favorite designers?

Nicole: Personally, my favorite designers include Marc Jacobs, Christian Louboutin, and Alexander McQueen. Their styles are daring, and they are not afraid to be original. I also like the slightly more conservative, but still edgy Stella McCarthy and Prada. Some of the newer designers such as Alexander Wang and Derek Lam also come out with fresh ideas that reflect the younger generation too.

What do you do when you’re feeling creatively stifled?

Nicole:When I have a creative block, it’s usually because I’m over-worked and stressed so for me, the best way is to simply go relax to clear my mind. Do something I enjoy doing, like strolling along the park and experience the nature and sunshine. Walking around helps me reflect upon everything too, that may be stressful for me. Sometimes I also get inspiration from magazines. I have a habit of tearing out pages from magazines. It’s also interesting to see the trend changes throughout time. And of course, I also like to read a lot of blogs, to keep myself updated and see what people are talking about, it can really help me get a clear picture and design away. When I go out shopping, I make sure to check out everything around the stores, and pay attention to colors and detail of garment. Someone walking on the streets with a cool outfit can also inspire me too, especially when I am out traveling in a different continent. European fashion is distinctively different from Japan or America, and it’s refreshing to learn from all this, especially when I’m creatively stifled.

What has been the greatest moment of your career so far?

Nicole: The greatest moment of my career so far is mainly designing and creating a brand new product. Girly Girl had no reputation, no expectations, and no previous judgments. I was able to create something completely new and bring it out! Also I have experiences in different fields within the fashion industry, and being able to apply my previous clothing design experience on shoes is immensely satisfying because I feel like these experiences leads me to my very own unique style.

What could top that?

Nicole: If Girly Girl expands because of me, that would definitely top that. I have a vision for Girly Girl to be somewhat like a brand like L.A.M.B. Known to be very stylish, and coming with a wide variety so it has something for everyone. Also expanding Girly Girl to accessories such as handbags, maybe even clothing.

Where can we get our hands on Girly Girl Shoes?

Nicole: Girly Girl is available in numerous trendy boutiques around the United States and overseas! Please visit our website and facebook page for latest information.

Words by Gala Darling, Photos courtesy of girlygirlshoe.com