So having noted that the Fall 2014 collections just finished their run during New York Fashion week, I thought it might be prudent to note what was happening for Spring 2014. So, here’s what to look for:
In the shape department – We are seeing lots of geometric or architectural form. These lines will make the foot look longer and leaner. Although reported earlier that platforms/wedges were out, it appears not, and there are lots of new styling and detail on the sides providing an added dimension. A bit later we’ll talk about the variations on the traditional T-strap and ankle strap and pointy toes are in (woo hoo one of my favorites!)
Material/Fabrication – The dominant material for shoes remains leather, but there are lots of man-made materials used in manufacturing shoes. In addition to leather, suede, patent leather and embossed or printed motifs and textures are prevalent. I have not been a big fan of suede in the summer, but in certain styles, I’ve come around to it.
There are many different man-made materials including stretch micro fibers, elastic strapping, jutes and canvas. Animal prints are still in – look for a variety of colorful snake and lizard prints from natural colors to very unnatural colors!
Snakeskin is in! – Look for snakeskin sandals in every color of the rainbow this year. Snake-embossed leather is much more common and reasonably priced compared to the real thing, but printed man-made materials are also popular.
Graphic printed shoes – A new method of printing or embossing color and texture onto leathers and suede’s creates new and exciting looks. From geometric designs to abstract, prints are great options. I would suggest that print shoes work best when paired with solid apparel, so that they stand out as a great fashion statement piece that they are. Tie-dye prints will also be popular.
Sheer – There were lots of sheer options on the runways for Spring. Netted mesh and see-through plastic, lace and other sheer fabrics allow a peak of skin and a seriously cool look. A leather bootie is not a great option in the heat of summer or a hot Spring afternoon, but add mesh or sheer fabric and it instantly looks breezy light and awesome!
DETAILING – Lots and lots of detailing! From embellishments to strapping look for it everywhere! Straps especially at or around the ankle; buckle, wrap, tie or use Velcro closures, they are most prominent above the instep and below the ankle.
The Ankle Strap Pump – A staple shoe and a favorite shoe for me gets a small but significant change for Spring. Add a sleek and skinny ankle strap to this classic and it becomes new, fresh and a bit sexy. Still completely appropriate for the office, but they can carry you right through to nights out with the girls or that significant other.
The Gladiator – Still hot for Spring 2014, the gladiator trend continues. First out in spring/summer 2008 it’s back but not as prominent. You’ll see this style in sandals and booties.
Appliqués/Flowers – These are in abundance for spring. Appliqués are seen in trims added to toes, heels, sides and straps. Added flowers of all shapes and sizes in contrasting or monochrome color look for these in a variety of materials. The flowers range from subtle to a veritable bouquet. Regardless of the size these add elegance and femininity.
Metal is being used to trim many parts of the new shoes, especially straps and highlights on the instep of many styles. Jewels shoe up often as trim ornamentation on new shoes; they are used to set off unique shapes as well as add ornamentation to basic styles.
Laser cutouts are everywhere; they began several seasons ago and are now popular in most brands where they not only add patterns to otherwise plain leather but also create breathability for cooler wearability.
Studded – Studded boots that were popular for fall will flow over into summer in studded shoes and sandals. We’re seeing metal studs, big buckles and shiny zippers. These edgy embellishments portray a rock ‘n roll flavor, but if that’s not you, pair with romantic ruffled tops and other floral, feminine pieces to tone it down.
Beaded – Beading adds interest by changing colors or shades of color the shoe. These ornately beaded works of footwear border on art.
Funky Embellishments – For the past couple seasons, wild embellishments have been a designer standby and we’re seeing a wealth of extravagant and unique embellishments this season that are taking the classic shoe and turning it into a statement maker. As awesome as these shoes are, they may not stay around so my advice is to keep this a single purchase.
Tribal Influences – We’re seeing a variety of thong sandals dressed up with tribal influence or Native American-inspired beading.
HEELS – For 2014 we’re seeing lots of different heel types; thick, chunky heels, architectural heels, and crystal-encrusted heels. Lots of attention will be going to the back of the shoe this season, so wear these shoes with your favorite dresses or cropped pants to show off all the details.
FLATS – The must haves for travel and day wear are all the new shapes encompassed into flats or very low heels and wedges. They can be ballet flats with rounded or pointy toes, moccasins, loafers or sandals sporting closed, open or peep toes. Sling back straps, side cut outs and other options abound.
SUMMER/CUT OUT BOOTIES – Bootie’s are a staple and wearing a chunky pair with a light and airy sundress is great, lighter versions are a necessity. This Spring, you’ll see a variety of styles that have a bootie silhouette that show some skin by way of cutouts, open sides, peep-toes, and exposed heels.
MULES – Backless shoes are a trend everyone can rock, as they come in a myriad of heights. Sleek styles add polish to all kinds of looks. It’s one of those shoes that can translate from the runway to the everyday woman’s closet. They work equally well in the office and with a casual outfits.
SPORTY – We’ve seen sneakers on the runway before, but the variety of styles this year were inspired by outdoor activities. There were flat booties that looked eerily similar to water socks and strappy, nylon sandals that could’ve passed as classic Tevas, but they were still sneakers. Use of athletic materials such as perforated leather, woven nylon and neoprene shows that one of the hottest trends of Spring 2014 is combining urban style with luxury.
COLOR – The staples black and brown aren’t going away, but after this long winter, color is indeed needed. A variety of reds, greens, blues and oranges in all types of shades and combinations, will be popular. Navy looks to be big this year as well. Don’t forget metallic’s they’re in all the new shades! In addition the colors above, 2 are worthy enough to call out on their own:
Placid Blue – An icy-toned blue is a top picks for the Spring 2014 season. Dubbed “placid blue,” the hue has a calming and serene quality about it. It’s used as both the main color and as an accenting neutral.
Freesia – A blazing yellow the color of electric citrus, a smoldering sun. This color will energize you. This will certainly add a kick to an outfit!
So much to think about and so many great new styles to try! And in case you were wondering, Orchid (in the purple family) is the newest spring color for clothing. Keep that in mind when out shopping for new spring and summer shoes!