Footwear News
NEW YORK — Will boots be a boon for department stores this fall?
A number of top retailers think so, citing freshness in the marketplace and cool weather forecasts — two key factors that are expected to drive consumer demand amid a challenging retail environment.“
The biggest opportunity for growth this season is in boots,” said Liz Rodbell, SVP and GMM of women’s footwear at Lord & Taylor. “Our early indications are very positive, and [we] are confident [footwear] will be strong this fall.” She added that Uggs, slouch boots and shoe booties are key looks for the chain.
Boots also are expected to fuel sales at luxury department stores....
...In the high-end men’s arena, Connecticut-based stores Mitchells of Westport and Richards of Greenwich are continuing to see sales for collections priced at $1,000 and up, as well as more trendy denim-inspired lines.
“Everyday loafers and cap toes aren’t selling,” said GMM Dan Farrington. “You have to have something [unique].”“[Overall], our shoe business is very healthy,” Farrington added. “[Footwear] will fare better than other parts of our business this season.”
Indeed, many retailers and analysts predict the category could be a bright spot in a weak retail environment, particularly when compared with apparel. “Footwear has the potential to do better [than apparel],” said Cohen. “Right now, apparel is kind of hanging in there.”
================================================
Please send your comments to GreenwichRoundup@gmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment