Fall
2001- Footwear Trend Report
Reported
by: Meg
Rottman, PR Style
With just a brief nod backwards to the retro barefoot technology of the 1970's, footwear designers have embraced the new decade by going forward to the sleekest, most sophisticated boot season in years. Zipped up, buckled down or pulled on, tall shafted or ankle height, boots are certain to be the footwear of choice for Fall 2001, with an outstanding selection that will demand a closet of multiple pairs.
Ranging from a deconstructed leather high-top wrestling boot to the tightest pull-on red metallic with stiletto heel, boots are infinitely varied. On the one hand (or foot,) comfort is key, on the other styles have trended back to feminine silhouettes adorned with flowers, buckles and rhinestones.
The color story for fall's cooler weather is rich and deep. Gold is the shade of the moment and makes an appearance in yellow to bronze tones, antiqued or washed over such brights as green and pink. Also important is the ubiquitous black, but this season it is seen paired with white in herringbone or hound's-tooth patterns or teamed with red to replicate this season's ready-to-wear shades.
Purple and wine will be strong for holiday with rusty reds, oxblood and burgundy, followed in popularity by greens and blues. The strongest newest color for fall, however, is camel. Imagine the most sophisticated pump, the tapered knee high boot with a slim heel or a low heel slide in a classic croc pattern - all in a creamy, smooth tan. Then throw in a matching handbag and a tiny buckled belt in a designer logo pattern for the newest in "matchy matchy" Breakfast at Tiffany's elegance.
Toe and heel character is important as toes elongate and become pointed in the fastest of fashion styling; and heels are lower and more defined. The oblique, round toe last from last season will remain for fall and gain in importance without the opened toe silhouette of last spring.
In all shoe categories, but especially men's, the unit bottom gains in prominence. Big blown rubber soles wrap around the outside of the most casual shoes, while even dress takes on a comfort feel. Work shoe technical features, including waterproof materials, dual density insoles, high traction, insulated linings and Velcro fasteners, appear in all men's categories. And, sport shoes (soccer, running, equestrian, cross training, and particularly bowling) create their own influences.
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