Highly Recommend is a place to celebrate entrepreneurs, quality products, and, above all, great style. Here, we share some of Argent's favorite fellow fashion brands—ones we turn to when styling our own collection—and the founders behind them.
Pictured: Gray Matters Michol Mules Nero
Long-time Argent fans will likely recognize Gray Matters as a long-time favorite of ours. The modern, minimalist footwear label has made many appearances alongside the Argent collection over the past few years, including in photoshoots and within our founder, Sali’s, wardrobe.
Led by Silvia Avanzi, the brand is based in New York, made in Italy, and has established a signature aesthetic that’s unique, modern, undeniably cool, and often with a sculptural heel silhouette. Ahead, Silvia shares more about what goes into this beloved independent label and the styles she turns to again and again.
GRAY MATTERS LAUNCHED IN:
"2016."
THE ORIGIN STORY OF GRAY MATTERS IN 10 WORDS OR LESS:
"We reinvented the mid-height heel for the independent woman (with European flair and a sprinkle of New York energy)."
MY CURRENT SOURCE OF INSPIRATION IS:
"Women of the world and their different styles: their traditions, cultures, lifestyles, and artistry. Art and archiecture always drive me, as well."
ONE PIECE OF ADVICE I WISH I HAD BEEN GIVEN DURING THE FIRST YEAR OF MY BUSINESS:
"Understand your market but go your own way. The best inspiration is found outside the industry."
Silvia Avanzi
Founder, Gray Matters
Photo: Roger Dong
THE BEST PIECE OF CUSTOMER FEEDBACK I'VE EVER RECEIVED:
"A customer once said, 'Thanks to Gray Matters, I don’t need to carry flats in my bag anymore. I can wear the shoes all day and feel confident, sleek, and comfy.'"
THE MOST CHALLENGING PART ABOUT THIS CHAPTER OF MY BUSINESS:
"Ensuring that all our customers in the U.S. and abroad receive their order in a timely manner. Covid caused several disruptions to distribution and we are working with our partners to avoid any potential delay."
AND YET, LOOKING TOWARD THE FUTURE OF GRAY MATTERS, I’M EXCITED BECAUSE:
"Our loyal customers are growing! We cannot wait to share what’s coming up next season."
ADVICE I WISH I HAD BEEN GIVEN
"Understand your market but go your own way."
Pictured: Gray Matters Mildred Classic Bianco
MY FAVORITE STYLE IN THE COLLECTION IS:
"From the summer collection, they are the Agile Mules and the Tear Sandals. My timeless, classic favorites are the Micol pumps."
I WEAR THEM WITH:
"Our classics and the Agile Mules are a perfect match with any of my Argent blazers. I like to wear the Tear Sandals with one of the cotton dresses for a relaxed summer day."
Highly Recommend
Shop the Gray Matter's site and follow on Instagram.
