The “Michael” has been called untouchable. Ever since its creation in 1945 upon the birth of Michel Richard, the founder of Paraboot’s grandson, the shoe has kept its heavy and stylistic aspect as part of its unchanged design. With a tried-and-true solidity, its rebellious je ne sais quoi has put the Michael inside the wardrobe of a number of 20th century men. Just like a uniform, the shoe is made to last. When Eugène Riconneaus started to take an interest in shoes, he was only 12 years old, and wanting to patch up his worn out sneakers to serve his passion for skating. His first shoe? A derby with a wooden heel. Today, the young Parisian is collaborating with Paraboot to reorchestrate the Michael.
Self-taught alongside traditional French shoemakers, Eugène remains loyal to the values of his younger years. With a love of savoir-faire that is passed down through the ages, he always works with cuts, braiding, or sheathing. And to revisit this iconic French shoe, the young man opted for a punk aesthetic, rejuvenating the very essence of the shoe itself in doing so. These kicks now sport an orange leopard skin print with white welt stitching. The shoes are fit for the Sex Pistols, even for post-modernity. Dressed up with a pointed look, their neon colors give them a softly grungy sophistication. It’s a uniquely French collaboration, exclusively available at Colette, Simple Concept, and 10 Corso Como.
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