Packing your bags for Vegas? With FN PLATFORM less than a month away, show curator and president of footwear at UBM Advanstar Leslie Gallin shares what’s new and noteworthy about the show. She explains that buyers should expect to see more-sophisticated product offerings from brands, who are making use of higher quality materials and new technologies. “With the opportunity for choice, the consumer is demanding more for their money,” she says, adding, “The consumer is driving the trends.” Leading brands including Trask, Two24, Sam Edelman and AS98 are blazing the trail with sophisticated styles that sport details like monk straps, lug soles and kitten heels. Other trends of note? “Pretty pastels will be translated throughout fashion—including footwear,” offers Gallin. And keep your eyes peeled for “granny” silhouettes for women and desert boots and monk-strap styles for both genders. “Say goodbye to lace-ups,” she adds.
But all work and no play makes for dull attendees, so Gallin is sure to mention the show’s opening night concert featuring Don Felder of the Eagles (who will be performing Feb. 16 from 6 to 7pm). “We’ll also have GlamSquad on site offering complimentary 10-minute hair and makeup touchups, which is perfect to check out before hitting the town at night,” she notes.
