tastemakers

Davinia Wang Carries Shoes for the Confident Woman

Finally, the well-heeled in need don’t have to head up to Barneys or even to the meatpacking district for new shoes. Edon Manor, located on Greenwich Street in Tribeca, is chock-full of all the designer boots, pumps, and flats we want to wear right now. Owner Davinia Wang, along with her creative director, Ryan Corban, have created the coziest atmosphere for shopping, complete with bookcases, a fireplace, and afternoon tea. We sat down with Davinia to find out what compelled her to open the shop, who she carries, and what you need in your closet right now.

What’s the vision behind the store?
The idea was to bring a new shopping experience — one that contradicted the stark and modern interiors that the city is famous for. Ryan (my partner in crime and creative director) and I wanted to infuse the tranquility and elegance of English living into a store. Libraries filled with books, fireplaces, striped wallpaper, beautiful moldings, and seating areas with comfortable, deep couches were elements that Ryan appreciated most about English homes — we both loved the warmth that they would bring to a space. The store is therefore a feminine and inviting place that encourages shoppers to relax and try on shoes.

Can you describe the type woman who shops at Edon Manor?
She is a confident, fashionable girl who isn’t afraid of expressing herself using striking accessories. She can be assured that what she buys here will not be seen on every fashion follower. It definitely takes a special kind of person to be able to not only appreciate but also pull off many of the runway pieces that I pick for the store.

What labels do you buy and how do you decide what shoe styles to carry?
I just felt that the city lacked variety. Every store that I went to carried the same designers and styles. Givenchy and Alaïa have the largest collections at the store — in my opinion, their designs were not represented fully at others stores. I always carry a few prominent pieces from Proenza Schouler, Nina Ricci, Giambattista Valli, and Vivienne Westwood, because they are all such unique and special designers. As for the emerging designers, I always try to introduce British newcomers, so at the moment we feature Rupert Sanderson and will be carrying Chrissie Morris, both of which have amazing shoes that are classy and yet quirky.

What are some of your favorite styles in stock right now?
The Rupert Sanderson patent, black-pointy platform pumps, the Alaïa grommet boots, and the Giambattista Valli hot-pink platform pumps.

What was the first pair of designer shoes you ever bought?
A pair of Gucci laced platform pumps. I still have them in my closet… I still think they are gorgeous; I just can’t fit into them anymore.

Who are your favorite designers?
Stella McCartney, Balenciaga, Givenchy, Preen, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang, and Jil Sander.

What trends do you like for this winter?
Hardware — grommets, studs, chains; skins — zebra and leopard; feathers.

Any trends you wish would go away?
Crocs.

What’s something that every woman should have in her closet?
Isabel Marant pants and the Mulberry Bayswater bag.

Finish this sentence: I never leave the house without__________.
Labello lip balm.

Davinia Wang Carries Shoes for the Confident Woman