Gail McInnes

Fashion Flash, Fall 2007

They say the shoes make the man, but really it’s the shoes that complete the outfit. Fall 2007 is all about chanelling the debonair leading man. Think Cary Grant; even he said it best, “Everyone wants to be Cary Grant. Even I want to be Cary Grant.”

While men’s suits are becoming leaner and pant legs slimmer, more emphasis is placed on a man’s footwear. Men are looking for more elegant and refined pieces to complete their look and their footwear will be no exception. Men will want to fill their wardrobe with timeless shoes, and will be willing to pay a little extra for the exquisite workmanship and luxurious materials from European manufacturers like Santoni, Ermenegildo Zegna and Bruno Magli. Be sure to instruct your clientele on how to take care of their fine leathers as many may still be of the old “spit and polish” school.

Black is still the leading colour of choice for most men, with brown maintaining its hold on second place. Toes are gaining more length and still becoming pointier. Shine is in -top trends in material include polished leather, snake skin, and alligator style leathers. Details like buckles and oxford lacing are classic yet modern.

Casual footwear is steering more towards that distinguished avenue with a look of ease and comfort. Suede loafers and ankle boots drive forward, but are less bulky than past seasons, becoming narrower.

This fall season your customer will want to become the gentleman they saw their grandfathers as, and you can help them put their best foot forward.