Designer Heather Williams of H Williams footwear is quickly becoming a Shoe Goddess favorite. With her luxe materials and incredible usage of details and architecture, her line is unique and a fresh take on the footwear industry. Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City’s, 10022-SHOE recently picked up the line as an emerging designer, and will begin selling the line in the spring. Personally, I am a fan of the almost origami-like architecture found in many of the shoes, and their ability to play many roles in a woman’s wardrobe, making them not only versatile, but staple pieces, that have managed to become timeless while remaining on-trend. Williams also makes stunning bags, which are definitely worth more than just a glance, but for now, let’s focus on the shoes.

The Shoe Goddess: When did you first become interested in shoes?
Heather Williams: Since I was very young, I always loved sculpture and the act of physically making things. I think designing shoes is equal parts sculpture and fashion and I like the technical aspect of the design process.

TSG: Who or what inspires you most?
HW: I pay really close attention to art and architecture. I have my most creative ideas when I’m fascinated or perplexed and it forces me to become creative. I had no idea how to construct a bridge, but staring at the Brooklyn Bridge one day inspired me to develop one of my most popular Spring 2010 models, the “Olivia.”

hwilliams_olivia_silver The “Olivia”

TSG: How did your time in Milan help you in furthering your dream of becoming a shoe designer? 
HW: When I moved to Milan, I had been designing for 8 years already, but living in Milan and working in the Italian factories amongst so many important shoe designers who also produced there made my dream of becoming an independent designer seem so much more attainable.

TSG: Can a woman ever have too many shoes?
HW: Sometimes yes. I think it is best to buy quality shoes and edit down your collection to the best pieces. If you’re investing in great product and design, do them justice by wearing them. Don’t fill your closet with cheap knock off’s. Buy the key pieces that make you feel and look great because at the end of the day, those are the styles that will last.

TSG: Talk about the inspiration for your latest line.
HW: For almost two years, I’ve been based in Italy and spending short periods of time back in New York. My most recent collection, for Spring 2010, was sketched while I was back in New York. I noticed myself paying close attention to how different the architecture in New York is from Milan. My Fall 2009 launch collection was inspired by Italian architecture. I drew inspiration from the Brooklyn Bridge (Olivia), the Flatiron Building (Chiara, Jesse), and the stunning evening skyline in Manhattan (Rueda).

hwilliams_chiara_blueblack The “Chiara”

TSG: What shoe must every woman have in her closet?
HW: We all need a sexy pump, but even more importantly, I think you need at least one stand-out and unique shoe that makes you feel great, looks good, and shows off your individual style. You want a statement shoe, the kind of shoes that you wear out and everyone stops and asks you where you bought them.

hwilliams_gaia_lightgold The “Gaia”

TSG: What celebrity/fashion icon would you dream about wearing your shoes?

HW: Madonna: love her or hate her, she’s strong, dynamic, and carries herself with confidence. One moment she’s on stage performing, another moment she’s a mother, another moment she’s a humanitarian. I really admire her ability to play so many different roles at once.

TSG: Who is the woman that wears H Williams? 
HW: She is definitely very confident, but has the ability to switch gears when it comes to personal style. My shoes can be seen as a bit aggressive, but the materials are somewhat understated. It gives them the ability to transition well from one occasion to another. I really want my customers to be able to wear them to the office and then a night function, especially in this economy.

hwilliams_jesse_taupe The “Jesse”

TSG: If you could bring only one pair of shoes on your next trip, what would they be?
HW: I think it would most likely be the “Rueda” shoe. It’s casual enough to wear with jeans and a cute top but I can also dress it up for a party. It’s great for many occasions.

TSG: What shoes are you wearing now?
HW: I’m wearing the pleated “Monti” boot from my Fall 2009 collection. I love it because I think the detail and use of the pleating is so unusual and unique. It can be difficult to pull that off in boots without making them look over-designed.

TSG: Which shoe designer has inspired you the most?
HW: Andrea Pfister did some really groundbreaking things back in the 70’s and 80’s. Some of those shoes are so timeless that they still look fresh and on-trend today.

hwilliams_colton_taupe The “Colton”

For more information, visit H Williams.