The trade shows of 2024 have kicked off with a bang as buyers flocked to warmer climates. MAGIC hosted its first Miami market, showing Spring/Summer ’24 and ready-to-ship immediate. Then, in Dallas, the Western industry converged at WESA to shop more than 500 product lines of equipment, apparel, and accessories. Here’s what was on the scene:
MAGIC Goes to Miami
MAGIC, a trend-driven women’a market, took to Miami to showcase an array of apparel, accessories, home, gift, and beauty brands. Footwear brands included Sam Edelman, Seychelles and Miami-based MIA Shoes. Over 13% of attending buyers at MAGIC Miami represented international retailers from The Bahamas, Venezuela, Guatemala, Panama, Colombia, and Jamaica. Canada was also represented onsite bringing in notable buyers from Honey, Suzy and Over the Rainbow. The goal to attract new buyers was a success; 39% of retailers were first-time attendees.
“The experience at MAGIC Miami has proven to be a game-changer, surpassing expectations as we garnered exposure in over 10 Latin and South American countries. The networking opportunities were significant, contributing positively to our brand’s international visibility.” —Mohit Junea, CEO, America & Beyond.
Justin Boots Launches George Strait Collab, Celebrates 145th Anniversary at WESA
The atmosphere at Justin Boots’ WESA Booth was a non-stop party, as the brand celebrated its 145th anniversary. It also added new styles to its collab with the King of Country, George Strait. The new exotics, the Haggard and Ocean Front, feature caiman and pirarucu leather along with the line’s King Comfort Removable Insert. The result is wearable luxury designed for the “modern cowboy.”
“I’ve got some new exotics coming out that I’m thinking are going to be your new favorites. They are mine anyway. They’re named Haggard, after my hero of course, and Ocean Front.” —George Strait
Twisted X Debuts Three New Collections at WESA
Twisted X had several big introductions at the show, including a partnership with 4-H, a new Reserve Collection aimed at elevating comfort and durability, and a sustainability initiative called The Circular Project™. The Circular Project’s nine styles (five men’s and four women’s) are offered an an array of earth tones crafted from upcycled materials. The midsoles and footbeds of each pair will be comprised of 85% excess foam factory scraps, diverting the waste from landfills. Consumers are also encourage to send their shoes back to Twisted X’s Texas headquarters after use, where they will be reground and repurposed again.
“The mission of Twisted X has always been to make comfortable, durable and eco-conscious footwear. Sustainability is our area of expertise and comes second nature to us, but we are consistently innovating to push the boundaries of what is possible. We believe that small steps can make a big impact and I’m thrilled that the Twisted X consumer will have an active role in our cutting-edge initiative as we step into the circular economy and do better for the planet together.” —Prasad Reddy, Twisted X CEO
WESA Best of Show Winners Announced
WESA’s Best of Show brands honored American Hat Makers, fashion tack and women’s accessories brand Rafter T Ranch Company, Vintage Cowgirl Cases (upcycled luggage from vintage leather belts), Lucky Chuck Brand boot socks, Designs by Pat lariats, Sexy Couture denim, and Vogt silversmiths leather and silver accessories.
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