Valenki rock! Resurrection of traditional woolen boots
Published 14 December, 2007, 09:31
Once just humble everyday wear for Russian peasants, the woolen boots valenki have been brought to the catwalk, and the wardrobes of the fashion conscious.
An exhibition in Moscow has displayed the latest trends in valenki.
Russian peasants could never have imagined that their woolen boots would one day be the height of fashion.
Though the process of making valenki has not changed for 300 years, designers have brought the time-honoured craft into the 21st century.
Irina Vershinina first regarded valenki design as a part-time hobby but because it is so profitable, she now admits she might make it her full-time occupation.
“Now people have valenki made more often than in the past. Generally, they want to make an unusual present for their friends and relatives. But it is not just a souvenir, you can wear valenki throughout the whole winter for many years,” assures designer Irina Vershinina.
She says that the most popular style is embroidered valenki. Many Russian fashionistas have the kinds boots in their wardrobes. But those who want to stand out can have their valenki decorated with beads, laces, buckles and even rhinestones.
“I think that valenki came into fashion because people began to care much more about their health. Valenki are the warmest boots in the world, you will never be cold in them even in severe Russian winters…And besides, they're more environmentally friendly than leather,” explains Irina Solovyeva, Director of Museum of Valenki.
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