THE RETAIL REPORT
The brands and trends clicking with top buyers.
KEN DOWNING SVP AND FASHION DIRECTOR, NEIMAN MARCUS
Big Themes: “The femininity of romanticism influences offer candy-coated color to footwear — from summer suede boots and booties to updated kitten heels to chic sandals with flourishes of flowers, ruffles and embellishment. The fashion nomad will delight in fringe trims and multiculturalinspired decoration on sandals. Boots and booties continue within a Western theme or as chukka boots. Platform footbeds on summer sandals take inspiration from Tevas and Birkenstocks.”
Color Stories: “Neon and bold brights infuse ’80s excitement into shoes, boots and sandals. High metallic shine led by chromed silver is everywhere.”
Overall Outlook: “With a season of such diverse and desirable messages, fashion enthusiasts will find many reasons to fill their footwear wardrobe with new things to ignite and excite their shoe collection.”
CASEY WINSTON ASSOCIATE FASHION DIRECTOR, ACCESSORIES AND BEAUTY, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE
Trend Takeaways: “Both New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week were fun, bold and bright. We are excited about the neon trend we have seen emerge and how it translates to this season’s shoes. We saw highlighter colors in heeled booties, sporty sandals and stilettos. Commercially, the customer will be inspired by the new take on ankle-wrap and city sandals. Some versions were more natural and nautical, and others a bit sexier. There was something for everyone this season.”
Sneaker Talk: “Sneakers have become a part of our customers’ wardrobe. She is wearing them day to night. We are also seeing the sporty double-band sandal as a nice updated option for the girl looking for a silhouette.”
Names on the Rise: “We are excited about Cult Gaia’s shoes. Jasmin Larian is inventive and creative in her design choices. Her heels look like art sculptures.”