It’s no secret that women dress (primarily) for other women; they notice jewelry, accessories, clothing and above all, shoes. Is it the same for men? No. But, do women notice what men are wearing on their feet? Absolutely. Here are some new fall styles coming down the runway for guys (and the women who shop for us).
Photo Credit: Marcus Stewart
I’ve recently caught up with Marcus Stewart. His design work and experience crisscross between many of the iconic institutions in the fashion world including: Vogue, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, GQ, Harpers Bazaar and Vanity Fair. His mentor, Andre Leon Talley, helped his career on a path that keeps hitting new heights. Most recently, Marcus’ fashion prowess can be seen on Bravo TV’s, “Dukes of Melrose.”
“The biggest footwear trend without a doubt would be the luxe twist on the traditional workman boot. Designers such as Louis Vuitton, Canali, Hermes showcase a polished and updated spin on the workman boot,” said Marcus. “The boot is versatile enough to wear with a business suit or your favorite pair of denim genes.”
He also mentioned that the bulky square toe is outdated and a rounded, streamlined toe is more up-to-date. It’s also wise to show off a little sock and be creative with your choice of colors and patterns. (See my article “Sock it To Him” this month in Metro Man).
They’re baaack!
Everyone should recall Hush Puppies from bygone days, and this fall you’ll see the classic style return with a fuzzy, fancy and affordable new approach. The 1958 collection has adopted a fresh and colorful new look. This fall, their shoes, boots and oxfords will be jumpin’ off the shelves at all major department stores.
I particularly like their Five-Brogue in grey and stone leather with cobalt blue and vibrant orange soles. The Saddle Wedge reminds me of a pair that I had several years ago but I gave it a jolt with a pair of lime green laces; I can swap them out with fire engine red or lemon yellow laces depending my whim.
Ruth Bernstein, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of NY-based creative agency, YARD, works with a number of footwear brands like Hush Puppies, G.H. Bass, Perry Ellis and Timberland. “For the fall, we expect to continue seeing an increasing number of footwear options that speak to an aesthetic design, as well as comfort. We are also seeing brands like G.H. Bass, whom are known for the traditional penny loafer, capitalizing on the trend of dress shoes being worn during more casual and everyday occasions given that consumers are more active than ever before. A number of heritage brands are following this approach, recognizing the market’s desire for quality footwear with classic design elements that are both modern and practical for the on-the-go consumer.”
From hipsters and homies to handsome execs, pick a pair to state your style.
Check them out at http://www.hushpuppies.com.
Cat Footwear has been designing and engineering quality footwear that lives up to the hard-working reputation of the Caterpillar brand. Rich in heritage, Cat began in the industrial work boot sector, and has since grown into fashionable lifestyle collections for urban, city-dwelling men and women.
Their work boots are perfect for outdoor activities this fall/winter; they are rugged, classic and well constructed. I’m also a fan of their Dougald Shoe in oxblood and light brown.
Check out their styles and purchase a few pairs at http://www.CatFootwear.com.?
One final item for the feet that I discovered is called Lock Laces. If you jog, run, hike, bike or simply enjoy outdoor walks, these laces literally transform your sneakers. The lock system made my sneakers much more snug than when I had regular tied-up laces. They come in array of colors and it makes getting reading for my workout that much quicker.
Make your purchase here: http://www.locklaces.com/
So gents, check out your attire before heading out into the world. The women are watching you from head to toe.
