With countless stores and outlets all over Victoria, and expansions into Queensland and Canberra, shoe maverick Tony Bianco has certainly done well for himself. While the label is best known for trendy footwear, his empire includes sunglasses and handbags, which have proven popular on the streets. Established in 1973, this family run business has stood the test of time, and the footwear brand has continuously paved the path in providing fresh-off-the-catwalk seasonal ranges to the style conscious women.
Drawing inspiration from international runways and key trends, designs and buying trips have a turnover time of about two to three months, with a strong emphasis on a fashion-first angle. New designs are released about four times a year, with summer looks in stores right now. As expected from such an iconic Australian brand, all the latest styles are to be spied on the shoe racks, at surprisingly affordable prices too.
At a recent Tony Bianco VIP night held at DFO Spencer Street, Ms Marshall and Mr Anthony Bianco were kind enough to have a quick chat with me. And ladies, you heard it here first, grab your patent platforms and gladiator sandals before they fly off the racks! For more classic designs, Tony Bianco has always been known for the use of colour, notably the reds, blues and purples, and their use of suede. A closet must-have is a pair of over-the-knee-boots, which is winter’s most popular item at Tony Bianco.
The VIP night was held for club members and the prices were great! I scored a pair of strappy wedges for a measly 35 dollars, and had change left over for coffee too. The event also saw some celebrities in attendance; I saw singer Ms Paris Wells leave with a very pretty pair of nautical style-inspired pumps.
For me personally, the best thing about Tony Bianco is how versatile it is. With a myriad of designs available, it caters for all generations and tastes. Loafers sit on shelves next to platform pumps. And now with a great online store, (do check out the pre-order section to see what’s in store next!), Tony Bianco looks set to provide great, accessible shoes for the next generation of young Australians and beyond.
Words – Amanda Phoon
Photography – Chris Moore
