Yes, you heard that right. On the final day of Paris Fashion Week in a sweltering 4th Arrondissement, an intriguing shoe made its way down a sunny outdoor runway. In occasional flashes of red, beige, and black, this rubbery-looking loafer was one of the most astounding details of an already astounding NAMESAK3 show. So, we asked: Who is she?

The shoe in question is developed by HUGO, the ruling brand of German clothing's in-house playground for technological innovation. Under the platform HUGO FORWARD, HUGO showcases its innovative, technology-driven approach to design with pieces carving a path of transformational exploration. Following the mantra, "You've got to keep moving to stay ahead of the game," the brand underscores its commitment to a better fashion industry.

HUGO

But they didn't go at it alone. Partnering up with Zellerfeld, a company at the forefront of future-facing footwear, they set out to produce the first ever functional 3D-printed loafer. And by the looks of it, they succeeded.

Fashioned entirely from recycled materials and made to order using custom foot scans, this super light, super flexible, and super futuristic shoe is more comfortable than you might think. We took it for a spin and were pleasantly surprised by the fact that it feels… well, just like a normal shoe. And pretty versatile one at that in terms of styling.

We’re told it was a coincidence that HUGO FORWARD x Zellerfeld’s creation stomped down a NAMESAK3 runway which was swimming pool themed. Guests were seated on inflatable rubber rings in the playground of a palatial lycée, those on the floor were given towels as cushioning, and an important question—HAVE YOU EVER PISSED IN THE POOL?—was inscribed in large chrome lettering on the far wall. Perhaps the most playful touch was the water gun given to each guest as a little momento. (Mine didn’t make it through airport security, sadly).

HUGO

As models did their laps of the courtyard, the HUGO FORWARD x Zellerfeld loafer was one of the objects in cross-legged guests’ most direct eyeline, a perfect accoutrement to the Taiwanese brand’s series of avant-garde looks. Showing up in one of PFW’s most mischievous shows—even themed around the idea of releasing your “inner child”—HUGO and Zellerfeld’s message was clear: it’s playtime.

The brand and its #HUGO YourWay campaign platform continue to offer more room to experiment, with the ambition to be the premium brand of choice for the social generation of change makers who consider creative ways of dressing as expressions of their individuality.

Check out everything from HUGO FORWARD x Zellerfeld's 3D-printed loafer here.