The Malone Souliers headquarters is nothing short of a fashion lover’s dream - a space where childhood fantasies of glamour, precision and luxury collide. A towering wall of meticulously crafted shoes catches the light, shimmering like treasures that have come to life. It’s in this space that Co-Creative Directors Coco Fong and Valerio Bava sit, reflecting on the journey of their brand and the evolution of their AW25 collection, which just took over London Fashion Week.
“The way we approach design is about evolution, not reinvention,” says Bava, his voice steady as he gestures to the collection. “We’re honouring the brand’s core principles - precision, craftsmanship, sensuality - while layering in new stories that make the product timeless yet relevant. We don’t want to fall behind the times, we want to stay in step with them.”
The AW25 presentation, held just days ago at NoMad Hotel’s Magistrate’s Ballroom, embodied the perfect fusion of old Hollywood allure and modern-day luxury. Picture smoky, shadow-filled rooms that felt straight out of a 1940s film, yet with a contemporary twist that made you feel as though you were stepping into the future. It was an atmosphere of dramatic tension, where danger and desire walked hand-in-hand, much like the satin mules and razor-sharp slingbacks that were showcased.
“When we started working on the collection, we were really inspired by noir films from that era,” Fong explains. “We wanted the presentation to be dark and dramatic, reflecting the mood of that cinematic style. But at the same time, we wanted it to speak to today’s woman - someone bold, confident, and unafraid to embrace her own power.”
The collection itself did just that: mules that kissed the floor with elegance, platforms that dared you to take a risk, and every shoe exuding the craftsmanship and sensuality that Malone Souliers is known for. “We’re not here to reinvent, we’re here to evolve,” says Bava, his tone passionate. “Fashion is always changing, and that’s exactly what we’re doing - evolving to stay relevant but still keeping the brands DNA intact.”
But it wasn’t just the artistry of the designs that took centre stage. The energy in the room was undeniable, and it didn’t take long to realise that the magnetic presence of Coco and Valerio was impossible to ignore. It’s rare to attend a fashion week event and feel an exclusivity that’s balanced with warmth and approachability. The atmosphere was inviting, with a kindness and openness that made everyone feel like they were part of something special. This down-to-earth vibe was down to Coco, Valerio, and their team, who ensured that every person could experience the beauty of the collection in a setting that perfectly complemented the designs.
Fong and Bava's approach to their work is just as personal as their connection with their customers. “We’re creating more than shoes,” says Fong. “We’re building a relationship with the women who wear them. It’s not just about selling a product, it’s about creating something that empowers them.”
And this sense of empowerment isn’t just felt by women in London. Their customer base in the Middle East remains loyal, and it’s clear that this is a region that resonates deeply with the brand. “The connection with our Middle Eastern customers is so special,” Bava shares. “It’s not just about selling shoes, it’s about giving women the confidence to feel strong and proud of who they are.”
“We’ve been designing Ramadan collections for years now, and it’s an important moment for us,” adds Fong. “The women in the region are so connected to what we do, and we love creating something meaningful for them during that time of year.”
Bava expands: “For us, the Ramadan collection is about more than just aesthetics. It’s about connecting with our customers on a deeper level, providing them with pieces that speak to both their culture and their style. And when they come back every year for our capsules, it feels like they’re adding to their collection, making memories with each piece they add.”
This sense of connection and cultural awareness is what makes Malone Souliers so much more than just a luxury brand. It’s about forging lasting bonds and creating something that feels deeply personal. “We always look for inspiration from the region - whether it’s architecture or visual elements,” Bava says. “There’s always something to reference. We travel, take photos, and then bring it back to the studio to create something that feels both timeless and relevant.”
As for their vision moving forward? “We want to continue evolving, innovating, and staying true to the women who trust us,” says Fong. “It’s not just about shoes. It’s about creating an experience, an empowerment that resonates globally. And that’s what we’re aiming for.”
With their AW25 collection, Malone Souliers has once again proven that they’re not just crafting shoes - they’re creating an experience. One that speaks to a woman’s strength, sensuality, and timeless elegance. And with Coco and Valerio at the helm, this journey is only just beginning. Explore the collection
