There are so many shoe designers out there that have fashion houses that have been around since long before I was born, therefore, I take serious pleasure in watching a shoe designer of my decade come into the marketplace and flourish. Such is the case with Alexandre Birman, the Brazilian born shoe god. When I first came across his shoes, I was awe-stricken for their unique silhouettes, fantastic attention to detail and absolutely stunning design. Since then, with each collection, I have just continued to adore the designer’s creations more and more. And I am not alone; Kate Hudson, Leighton Meester and Taylor Momsen are just some of his mega-starlet fans.

Birman first launched his luxury footwear brand in 2000, which made perfect sense as he was surrounded by fashion since he was a young boy. His father owns Arezzo, and is one of Brazil’s largest shoe manufacturers. Brazil is definitely an up-and-comer in the footwear scene, creating shoes that rival those from Italy easily. In 2008, he launched a second collection, appropriately titled, Alexandre Birman. The line focused in on luxury and sophistication and is created using imported raw materials, which he uses to create wearable works of art. The designs are a beautiful marriage of classic simplicity and decadent edge, and each shoe can be worn from day to night, creating an outfit and making a statement.

The footwear line spread like wildfire through Brazil and it was imminent (and lucky for me) that he line branched out to the US. Birman truly understands the woman’s foot and uses intricate, fun techniques to highlight new stunning areas of the woman’s foot and of course recognizes the old favorites. The shoes are well-made and beyond comfortable, literally you can walk miles in them without flinching once, it’s crazy. Right now, he is sticking with shoes, and I’m a shoe-freak, so it’s all good, but I’m not going to lie. When he introduces bags and other accessories, I will be the first on line.

POSHGLAM was able to nail down the Brazilian shoe god for a quick chat to hear more about his line, his design process and just about him in general. All hail to Alexandre Birman, emerging shoe (designer) god.

POSHGLAM (PG): When did you start designing footwear?

Alexandre Birman (AB): I launched my first luxury level brand, Alexandre Birman about 3 years ago. Although I come from a family of shoemakers in Brazil, the family shoemaking business has been around for decades.

PG: What women’s footwear trend do you love? Not prefer?

AB: The trend I’m really into at this moment is the peep toe bootie, I have many of these silhouettes in my collection and they are a favorite.

PG: What shoe should every woman have in her closet?

AB: Every woman should have a killer python-skin high heel in her closet.

PG: Who or what inspires you most?

AB: I’m inspired by different cultures, time periods, colors, emotions, etc.

PG: How do you want your shoes to make women feel?

AB: Luxurious, sophisticated and sexy at the same time.

PG: What inspired your Fall 2010 collection?

AB: My fall 2010 collection is very military and utilitarian-inspired. Some styles are structured similarly to the way a soldier’s boot would be, while other styles have wooden heels and aggressive platforms.

PG: Can a woman ever have too many shoes?

AB: I would say definitely not, however today it is not about how many pairs of shoes one owns; it’s about choosing the right piece to make you stand out. Which is what I try to remember when I design my shoes.

PG: Any plans to expand your line beyond footwear?

AB: At this moment in time I am 100% focused on footwear, but you never know what the future holds!
PG: Can you describe the woman that wears Alexandre Birman? (ie: What does she like? How does she spend her weekends?)

AB: She is a consumer that likes to have a shoe that will make her stand out in a crowd. She is sexy and confident.

PG: Where are your shoes made?

AB: They are handmade in our Brazil factory. Most of the materials are imported from Italy, and the exotic skins are brought in from different regions of the Philippines. Our shoemakers are masters at their craft; they all have the finest of trainings in Italy.

PG: As a relatively new shoe designer, how has it felt to have some the hottest women in Hollywood wearing your shoes?

AB: It’s a dream come true. I could not ask for anything more. The last year has been indescribable and I would like to thank my hardworking team for making it all possible.

PG: A word to POSHGLAM readers…what else would you like them to know about you and/or Alexandre Birman shoes that they do not know?

AB: Alexandre Birman is available at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. Follow up on twitter @Alexandrebirman.