Follow in the footsteps of this stylish duo and create your own Gommino shoes, writes Aznim Ruhana Md Yusup
THE Gommino shoe from Tod’s is often referred to as iconic. After all, it’s been around for decades and sets the standard for the driving shoe design with its trademark 133 rubber pellets on the sole and heel.
Made for men and women, there have been countless variations of the Gommino over the years. But this time, Tod’s is raising the game by getting its customers to design their own pair.
It’s called My Gommino, and the service is available online and in-stores.
Customisation starts with the model selection, followed by a leather option that includes alligator, python and classic calfskin. There are various colour choices, and the customer can choose to have their initials stamped on the shoe.
Supporting the My Gommino campaign in Malaysia are model and activist Deborah Henry and actor Idris Khan.
Together, they embody the shoe’s stylish casual vibe as they put their best foot forward this year.
DEBORAH HENRY
How long have you been wearing Tod’s Gommino shoes?
I am a Gommino girl fan. I started wearing them more than 10 years ago when it was a little harder to find shoes in my size 40 in Kuala Lumpur.
Plus, as a model, I was always having to squeeze into uncomfortable heels for shows and shoots, so I appreciated a comfortable pair of flats on days off
I lived in Hong Kong for about six weeks in 2009 and I couldn’t pack much. But a pair of Gomminos made in into my suitcase and I remember trudging the streets all days for castings in them — my feet didn’t get any blisters.
Tell us about your shoe customisation.
I must admit it was a lot harder than I imagined. We went through the options on an iPad and I created two pairs.
One was a bright blue with tricolour rope detailing and the second option was a beautiful gold and buckle with subtle aqua blue stitching and pebbles. I had my initials DEBS embossed on the side.
The gold pair won my vote and got a lot of attention during the launch.
The store has all the fabric swatches and hardware to make the designing process a lot easier and it is a lot of fun creating your very own unique pair.
How do you take care of your shoes?
Always wipe down leather with a soft damp towel if stained.
Do you match your shoes to your bag; and your belt to your shoes?
I think fashion is more free and fun now, so we dare to be more playful. But the general rule is that a ladies shoes and handbag should not necessarily match but complement each other.
For men, the belt and shoes should be the same colour or complement each other, or the shoe colour should be highlighted in some part of the outfit.
I can’t stand seeing a man in a suit with black shoes and a dark brown leather belt.
Have you suffered for fashion and was it worth it?
Always! But mostly for work. Once, I didn’t stand the entire night as I couldn’t bear the pain of the heels. But I do love beautiful pieces so I am willing to suffer a little.
In your opinion, who is the most stylish person in the world?
This is a hard one. There have been many icons over the decades. I love the evergreen yet daredevil style of Sophia Loren and Lauren Bacall, Marlene Dietrich and Iman. But how can I not mention Michael Jackson, David Bowie and Prince? Their style was effortless yet captivating.
How do you prepare for a big public event?
I go to so many events that it’s almost a nonevent! But seriously, for big events, I get a ‘Hollywood facial’ done earlier in the day as it gives you the most fabulous glow.
My new favourite group right now is Malaysian band Ryot Jones and I love their upbeat jazzy songs. I usually dance around to them in my bedroom.
Most of the time I do my own hair and make-up — I’d like to think I’ve gotten quite good at it over the years.
Tod’s is an Italian brand, so what is your favourite Italian dish?
Burrata, truffle and butter pasta. Actually, everything with truffles. The classic margherita pizza, veal milanese and all those delicious Italian gelatos and fresh mascarpone desserts. I could keep going.
Fresh, great ingredients and simplicity sums up Italian food and why I love it.
Do you have a favourite Italian football club or player?
Nope!
What was 2017 like for you and what are your hopes for 2018?
It’s been a whirlwind year of getting married, and working on new and exciting projects. We just launched Fugeelah — it’s a socially conscious business that supports the refugee community in Malaysia.
Fugeelah has a small accessories collection created by refugees for refugees. The proceeds will be channelled to support the Fugee School which is a non-profit school for refugee children.
In 2018, we hope to grow the business and get more people involved in doing good. We believe it takes a village to raise a child, but it takes the world to raise children and we want to see all children get an education.
IDRIS KHAN
How long have you been wearing Tod’s Gommino shoes?
I’ve been wearing them for about four years. It didn’t take much for me to be part of the campaign as I’m an avid fan of Tod’s.
Tell us about your shoe customisation.
My customisation theme is blue, which is my favourite colour.
How do you take care of your shoes?
When not worn, I will make sure the shoes are stored in their dust bags. But the shoes are not to be left without being worn for too long as that will damage them.
Do you match your shoes to your bag; and your belt to your shoes?
Occasionally. It depends on my mood that day. However, I’m a person who pays attention to detail, so one way or another, the things I wear will coordinate and not look off.
Have you suffered for fashion? Was it worth it?
Yes I have! I have this favourite shoe. The story is I really wanted it but it was half a size smaller than what I usually wear. It fits but it’s a little tight. Guess it’s worth it as I still wear it till today!
In your opinion, who is the most stylish person in the world?
Model David Gandy, David Beckham and Johnny Depp
How do you prepare for a big public event?
I don’t have a specific beauty ritual, but I do make sure my hair is on point.
Tod’s is an Italian brand, so what is your favourite Italian dish?
I can cook Italian, and my favourite Italian dish would be something I cooked myself.
Do you have a favourite Italian football club or player?
For an Italian football player, I would say Gianluigi Buffon.
What was 2017 like for you and what are your hopes for 2018?
2017 was tough but also great! The most meaningful thing that happened to me would be the screening of the first ever movie that I produced called KL Wangan that came to cinemas on Dec 21.
I have many things planned for 2018 but let’s not share them yet so as not to jinx them. I’ll tell you about them next year!