April 4th, 2010
Johan Ringdal is the founder and creative director of SWIMS — a Scandinavian-based shoe line that updates the fearless galoshes. No longer just something you throw on for function, the waterproof shoes are now re-imagined in modern (read: flattering) designs, while maintaining their practicality (For spring 2010, the company is unveiling loafers and slippers to its collection). SWIMS are meant to be worn OVER your existing footwear, and they’re surprisingly comfortable to put on. In addition to a sturdy and stylish “cashmere rubber” upper, the inside is fitted with a smooth liner that makes it easier to put on and take off the overshoes, while simultaneously shining up your shoes underneath. In other words, you can take them off after you come in from the rain, though we wouldn’t be surprised if you wanted to leave them on all day.
Ringdal graduated from Parson’s School of Design in New York and, inspired by his grandfather’s passed-down galoshes, set out to “reinvent a classic.” SWIMS launched its first collection in 2006 and they’re now carried in more than half a dozen countries worldwide. They’re the type of shoe for people who aren’t afraid to step out into the rain — and into the world — wearing something that’s a little bit different, a lot practical and a lot of fun. We asked Ringdal to talk to us about some other “classics,” as part of our exclusive online series about “things that never go out of style.” Here is his “top ten” list:
1. The Swiss Alps
2. Decency
3. Cleanliness
4. John Lobb
5. The Notorious B.I.G.
6. Roland Garros and The French Open
7. A fireplace
8. Ayn Rand’s “Atlas Shrugged”
9. Hong Kong
10. A road trip with friends
SWIMS offers a wide range of products for men and women that include lightweight overshoes, raincoats, umbrellas and overcoats. They’re available in select stores and boutiques worldwide. Check out www.swims.com for more information.
Tags: Johan Ringdal, John Lobb, SWIMS, Things That Never Go Out of Style
Posted in Fashion, Web Exclusives | 2 Comments »
June 15th, 2009
These days, it’s hard to tell whether we’re in New York or Seattle, with all the rain that’s been coming down. Even worse than being caught in a downpour without an umbrella? Having to navigate your way through slick streets and muddy puddles in your fresh-out-of-the-box sneakers or new pair of heels (Take it from us, one unfortunate misstep and those sparkling white kicks become a sorry and soggy sight). That’s where SWIMS comes in. Not quite galoshes and not quite overshoes, SWIMS are the ultimate in rainy day fashion, combining utility and function with style. From the ever-creative mind of Norwegian designer and stylist Johan Ringdal, SWIMS are like a rubber raincoat of sorts for footwear, allowing the wearer to keep their feet dry (and their shoes on), while maintaining the shape and structure of the shoe. The “City Slipper” (shown above), slips on easily over a pair of high heels. Instead of having to wear boots to work and then change into heels, women can simply poke the heel through the City Slipper and be confident that they’ll be kept dry. As a bonus, the inside of every pair of SWIMS is fitted with a smooth liner that not only insulates, but also works to polish the shoe. And just for fun, the soles of every pair feature a map of a major city in the world, like Paris or Tokyo.
Other models are available, including flat ballet slippers and boots for men. And if you think it’s hard to rock a pair of rubber rain shoes with your outfit, check out a few images from SWIMS’ latest campaign below. It almost makes us like the rainy weather a little bit more… if only to have an excuse to show off our shoes. Check out more images and an online shop at SWIMS.no
- TC
Tags: Johan Ringdal, SWIMS, Tim Chan
Posted in Fashion, Web Exclusives | 1 Comment »
