Italian shoe specialist HIM Co Group — which has been a go-to footwear producer for many top ready-to-wear brands — is expanding its reach with the debut of Odissì, an in-house contemporary women’s label.
At a time when some industry players are lamenting a lack of newness in the market, Odissì aims to fill white space for high-quality contemporary footwear.
“The contemporary world was missing this emotion and craftsmanship,” said Thomas Bollier, general manager of Odissì, who previously held roles at Timberland, Lacoste and Ralph Lauren.
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The company has tapped veteran designer Daniele Michetti as the creative director for the new brand, which launches at retail for fall 2024. Saks, Neiman Marcus, Shopbop and Carbon 38 are among the retailers that will sell the brand online. Galeries Lafayette in Paris, SKP in Beijing, El Corte Ingles in Spain and Browns in Canada, in addition to a number of independent boutiques, will stock the shoes in store.
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During a preview of the spring 2025 collection — produced primarily in Europe and priced from $275 to $575 — Michetti told WWD’s sister publication FN he was inspired by both the raw energy of Brooklyn and the rich aesthetics of Marrakech. “It’s about people, places and emotions,” he said.
The offering features footwear staples with unique detailing — including knotted mules, embellished sandals, ballet flats, metallic Chelsea boots, loafers with chain detailing and more.
The company’s extensive experience in footwear manufacturing and established production facilities are advantages as Odissi looks to compete in a competitive and challenging market.
While the HIM — High Italian Manufacturing — moniker has only been in place for a few years, the company has been on the scene for more than six decades. In 2020, Onward Holdings Co. Ltd. sold European subsidiary Onward Luxury Group in a management buyout deal, spurring the name change.
The company produces and distributes collections for designers such as Ulla Johnson, JW Anderson and Victoria Beckham, and also partners with Chloé and Lanvin on their footwear.