With weeks to go before the next iteration of its show, FN Platform has outlined the key trends set to shape footwear in 2019.
The trade show, which takes place Feb. 5-7 in Las Vegas, will have more than 30 countries represented across its footwear brands and suppliers.
Here, Leslie Gallin, president of footwear at FN Platform, shares highlights of the trends attendees can expect to see on the show floor.
Top trends for women
Ankle Straps
Although a far cry from the gladiator heels seen a few seasons back, ankle straps prove equal parts delicate and practical. As Galin puts it, they’ll prove a “no-fuss accent for the upcoming season’s favorite shoes.”
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Chunky heels
This could be considered “the return of the wedge” but, for the most part, the need for chunky soles hasn’t quite revived the wedge as a fashion staple. Chunky heels for the upcoming season are bigger and brasher than in years past. Gallin said the heel will provide a “solid, bold finish” and more versatility than a stiletto.
Unusual heel details
Pairing non-traditional heel structures with a trendy silhouette might become a great play in 2019, according to Gallin. The strangest and most unexpected styles will likely make waves among influencers and consumers alike.
Feathers
The most playful trend this year, feathers can create an appealing effect when paired with the right silhouette. Gallin praised the trend for being both “fashion-forward and feminine.”
Top trends for men
Chunky sole sneakers
For men, chunky soles were big in 2018 and they will continue that upward trajectory in 2019. The trend toward chunky soles for both men and women is heavily influenced by ’90s fashion and will likely stay in the zeitgeist for a while yet.
Multi-color sneakers
If the trend toward retro sneakers doesn’t work for your brand, colorful and versatile sneakers may be the answer. Gallin says colorful sneakers are the “look of the season” as a separate trend emerges to oppose the minimalist aesthetics of the “dad sneaker” era.
Brogues
For the dress shoe cohort, Gallin foresees the return of brogues to prominence in men’s footwear. The complicated, multi-part upper gives brands a chance to showcase design talent while maintaining a traditional look that always works well in the board room. As business fashion grows more casual, dress shoes have begun to show up outside of the office, too.
Leisure-driven dress shoes
Another effect of business casual becoming the new business dress is that dress shoes can finally focus on comfort. Shoes that look smart without sacrificing comfort will be in high demand among the best dressed of 2019, according to Gallin.