Following up on my predictions for the hottest footwear trends @ WSA – here are the actual top recurring trends seen during the show. What are your thoughts?

1.  Athletic-Fashion:  Along the lines of my “Tech-Mesh” prediction, we saw an abundance of fashion-forward athletic footwear.  However, much of the footwear had a retro feel vs. new-wave design.  UES (please see prior article!) did a fantastic job by adding gold chains and grommet details to exotic leathers, while companies like PunkRose took a classic Chuck Taylor-style and combined it with colorful tattoo-like artwork.  Retro decked-out sneakers are going to be a huge wardrobe staple this fall!

2.  Metallics:  Jewel-toned metallics could be seen in almost every category of footwear, from low-tops to 4″-platform heels.  Although my initial prediction called for an Ombre effect, I think the subtle hint of metallic here and there was a perfect addition – ombre might have been too much!

3. Ankle is Key:  I cannot emphasize the abundance of ankle straps!  Everyone was about the ankle: whether it was in the form of bejeweled straps on sandals, platform gladiators or in chain details – almost every company was loving the ankle.  And we loved it, too!  Nothing is sexier than a buckle, strap or bow!

4. Platforms:  One line in particular can make a platform shoe like no other, and that line is L.A.M.B.  I don’t know what it is, but the shape and contour of their platform is indescribable and has an incredible modern-luxe feel! I only wish I wasn’t 5′ 10″ so I could wear their amazing heels and not hit my head on ceilings…

5. Miss Mary Jane:   This shoe was seen at almost every vendor – classic, vibrant and a bit modified.  My favorite were Shellys of London – who created a whimsical and artisan variation of this classic design.  I especially liked the feminine detail of the rose buds, bows and carved wood soles.  This year’s MJ is much more refreshing than the fierce multi-strap spike heels of a few seasons back..

I’d love to hear your comments!  If you spotted another trend I may have missed, please share!