Yohji Inks Shoe Deal with Ferragamo

Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto has signed an agreement with Salvatore Ferragamo to create a collection of ergonomic shoes called Salvatore Ferragamo for Yohji Yamamoto.

Yamamoto plans to unveil the Ferragamo footwear in his fall 2009 runway show in Paris on Friday, March 6, according to a joint press release from the Japanese and Italian groups.

"Salvatore Ferragamo and Yohji Yamamoto are delighted to announce their co-branding project," read the release, calling the deal a "very unique collaboration."

The accord marks the latest tie up between Yohji and a major league brand and follows deals with Mikimoto Pearls, Doc Martens boots, Mandarina Duck for bags and with Moncler for winter coats.

However, Yamamoto's most famous link-up is the popular Y-3 line for adidas, a highly successful collaboration and something of a role model for avant garde designers looking to leverage their global brand names into revenue-producing product lines.

However, the agreement represents a significant departure for Ferragamo, a far more conservative business than its new Japanese partner.

Yamamoto spent time in Ferragamo's Florentine headquarters checking out the family-owned business' museum and archives before designing the line.

The shoes, ergonomic Chelsea boots and hiking boots will be available to consumers in early July in Yamamoto boutiques, Ferragamo flagships and more directional fashion stores. Prices will vary from just under $500 to just over $1,000.

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