Three comparatives thematically sum up next season – less, softer and higher in quality. Less means new shoes will be considerably cleaner-cut, i.e. less decorative and less loud. Soft sells! The magic word overriding all things next season is soft or rather even softer.
Flexible soles are certainly a must in any case – who buys stiff and boardy Tunit outsoles anymore? Though softness is key for uppers, too. Whether patent leather or laminate, nappa or suede – even with non-leather materials – nothing escapes this new softness 'ruling'.
New finishes, especially tube features, are intended to ensure shoes do not pinch. Higher quality relates primarily to the choice of materials used: high quality nappas, fine suede, shiny patent leather and shimmering metallics determine shoe fashions for next season. Findings are used sparingly.
However, higher quality also relates to the use of colour: discreet tones, especially white and cream nuances as well as greyish tones ranging from putty, gravel, stone and shining silver, exude tranquillity and modernity.
Radiant colours complement this as energising elements: fuchsia, yellow, red, green and ultramarine are amongst designers' favourites. These tones are used in large expanses of colour or as accents. Very 80s style neon colours are also seeing a comeback in the Young Fashion segment.
Minimal and perfect. Sensual and clear. Futuristic, architectural and straight-lined. The new shoe fashions captivate us with their simplicity. Neutral colours, starting with white, dominate here. Pale grey tones never look dull. They are highlighted with patent leather and metallic effects.
Reflective or more discreetly shimmering silver forms the perfect complement to the basic colour white. In terms of shoe styles ballerinas and peep-toes remain the No. 1. Lightness is underlined here by laser cuts, transparent acrylic inserts and minimalist styles.
Bows look feminine. Classic ballerinas – in patent leather or soft laminates – are given that necessary sex appeal with low-cut fronts. So-called moccasin ballerinas are very fashionable, suiting both sporty and elegant outfits.
Peep-toes feature as very flat shoes as well as slight wedges or really high heels. Block or funnel-shaped heels set the tone here. Platforms, especially concealed ones, come to the fore. An innovative note comes into play here thanks to square styles.
Clarity and functionality with proportions and lines are at the forefront of new menswear. Formal styles look more relaxed while casuals look more well-groomed. The colour scheme is characterised by pale tones. Alongside radiant white, neutral colours come to the fore.
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