In spite of the fact that I have been what I call grounded (meaning I am no longer able to wear high heels), I am still a bit obsessed with the things. So when shoe designer Carolin Holzhuber’s work appeared in my social media feed, I was hooked! Hers is certainly not the most wearable footwear ever, but my goodness, it is FIERCE. I love the idea of stomping down a runway wearing these ridiculous, glorious creations.

The shoes by the Austrian-born designer has been called closer to sculpture than footwear, and that’s a hard point with which to argue. Her architectural shoe designs seem to defy gravity. And not only does she design everything her label produces, she also makes them all by hand in her East London workshop. Not surprisingly, Holzhuber’s list of clients is as eclectic as her fashions. Her designs have been featured in all of the major fashion mags, she’s collaborated with the ever-innovative Iris van Herpen, and her daring designs have been worn by fashionistas far and wide, including Erykah Badu, Abba, Cardi B, Doja Cat, and Beyoncé.

You can see all of Carolin Holzhuber’s amazing footwear on her website and on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.