Cat Footwear, as we have known it for the last two decades, has revamped the composition, structure, and design elements by launching their new line called “The Legendary RAW collection” inspired by the turn the century and from the upcoming film release this December of The Great Gatsby, directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Last week, we were invited to their 5th avenue show room for an exclusive inside look at the collection and sent us away with complimentary pair of shoes or boots of choice.

The rugged look, craftsmanship, and their detailed finishing give their newest collection several alternatives; with just the right edge- between vintage designs on modern, refined natural materials.

This special launch of the Women’s RAW Autumn/Winter 2012 collection in the U.S. market for the first time since the brand was created is exciting, workable, and relevant for modern women like us. Their neatly tucked away showroom displays some of this seasons’ most innovative, spirited footwear. The collection includes slouchy boots/booties, riding/equestrian boots, as well as Chelsea boots along with various styles in oxfords, military boots, and chunky heels in bohemian/rebel chic. The men’s collection includes a variety of oxfords and wingtips. Cocktails were sponsored by Iceberg Vodka and snacks included assorted popcorn flavors by Pipcorn and cake cups by Bee’s Knees Baking Co.

This globally known brand has recently elected the Barbadian singer, songwriter Shontelle as the main brand ambassador to Cat Footwear. The special Cat Footwear x Shontelle Collection is edgy and fun. She joins a roster of “earthmovers,” like Martine Rose, founder of fashion label, LMNOP and Miya Ando, a post-minimalist steel artist; that together are examples of the brands tradition of hard work and fearlessness.

The A/W 2012 collection is now available to the general public in select stores and online at: www.catfootwear.com. The spring/summer 2013 collection will be available this March at retail stores globally. Get ready to see why the ‘Forged by work, driven by life’ brand tag line is so fitting.

– Coretta