Dukas: The Duke of Heels

published in: Accessories, 18 Oct 2011

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Dukas is a Greek footwear designer that has risen to prominence through his avant garde shoes and use of unique materials. Born in Thessaloniki on the 11th September 1975, Dukas studied at the American College, acquiring a Master’s degree in History of Art.

He has taken part in “Alta Moda”, a week of Italian haute couture and, more specific, in Fashion Calendar 2003, where 12 new talents from all over the world presented their collections. Vogue Italia magazine after the show heralded the Greek designer as a “subversive fetishist”. The collection was also presented in many Greek editions of international fashion magazines such as Vogue Hellas, Elle, In Style, L’ Officiel, Madame Figaro, Marie Claire, Votre Beaute etc.

At the first official “Hellenic Fashion Week” and in the context of the “Art Project 3D”, he created an original contemporary work of art which consisted of image, sound and light, in cooperation with a team of artists from the “Royal College of Art” of London, which made part of his advertising campaign, face of which was his muse, and actress, Natasa Kalogridis.

In 2004, Dukas presented his collection in multi-brand showrooms in Milan, taking the first steps for his international career. In the meantime, Dukas begins exporting his products in Europe, America and Asia (Tokyo, Los Angeles, New York, Marbella, Moscow, Monte Carlo, Saint Trope, London, Paris, Milan, Qatar).

This year, for the first time, Dukas showcased his Spring/Summer 2012 designs along with Paris Fashion Week at the prestigious TRANOΪ.

He has successfully collaborated with “Swarovski Hellas”and was part of international edition of the International Swarovski Book “Crystal Shoe Temptation”. Since 2005, he has been designing for Estée Lauder Hellas the Pink Ribbon bracelet to reinforce the Fight Against Breast Cancer Campaign and raise money for the Association of Women with Breast Cancer “A Leap To Life” (each year with the concept is different, based though on its pink colour).

For Autumn/Winter 2011-2012, Dukas drew inspiration from the classic ballet shoes and their satin ribbons. The heels are 14mm high in the shape of ballet dancers in their pointes. Crimson red, electric blue, silky fuchsia create a vivid contrast with hues of velvety black. Glitter, spots, and feathers complete the neo-glam style with a fetishistic approach.

Geometric, voluminous  platforms in new lines give a new vibe to black, sexy booties.

It is worth mentioning that from the very beginning until now all Dukas Collection products continue to bear the signature Exclusively Made in Hellas. The collection is hosted at selected outlets and big departments all over Greece.

Famous clients of Dukas include Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, and Diana Ross.

All images courtesy of Dukas©