A former Rag & Bone shoe designer has launched her own line of footwear and we’re impressed

If you’re not familiar with US fashion brand Rag & Bone, I’d describe it to you as offering directional, urban style. Kate Moss is a fan, so in other words, it’s cool. Now designer Lauren Bucquet, who spent a decade designing shoes for the brand, has launched her own line of footwear called Labucq.

The focus is on quality rather than quantity; the online selection is small, and the website explains that each shoe “passes through the experienced hands of nearly 40 artisans from start to finish”. Each pair of shoes is handmade in Tuscany, but it’s fair to say that the price point doesn’t reflect this. The shoes start at about €170, while ankle boots cost around the €300 mark. They’re not Topshop prices, I know, but you’ll pay more than this for a pair of shoes from the upper end of the high street.

Labucq’s classic ankle boot (below) also comes in python and suede and each pair is lined with lamb leather. The square toe and block heel look like they’ll offer real comfort, but also a timeless shape that I think will work with everything from skirts to trousers.

Jules black nappa boots, €304.31

Labucq has cleverly included classic styles as well as fashion-forward shapes in its collection, offering pieces that have a real point of difference as well as those go-to, wear-anywhere styles. I love these red suede shoe boots, partly because I haven’t seen anything like them before. The scalloped edge looks fresh and unexpected, and it adds a touch of femininity to the solid block-heel style.

Mel red suede, €282.57

These white croc mules look like they’ve come straight out of a fashion week street style lookbook. I love the textured leather and the architectural kicked heel. If they score as high on comfort as they do on style, then they’re an absolute bargain.

Claire ivory Crocco, €256.49