I have to say for a bum economy, there was a LOT of new brands being shown at FFANY. Quite a pleasant surprise! As I was hanging out with Sheena and crew in the Matisse booth, Sheena’s co-worker Pat Gellar, encouraged me to go visit her hubby Garry Gellar at Gweneth Shoes. Gweneth Shoes is a new line that only launched 18 months ago, but is doing quite well! The retail price points are from $79-$129 for shoes and $110-$250 for boots. They sell to better department stores and independent boutiques across the country and are targeted for women in their mid twenties to mid fifties….which is quite an impressive range. I did not get to meet the designer herself, but from what I saw of the line, it looks really fun, different, and well priced! Gwen (designer) was formerly the lead designer for Sam & Libby and the influence definitely shows in her collection.

Gary was extremely friendly and really knew the line well. He has been in the women’s shoe business for years, but still exhibited a love for the business and when I asked him why he has stuck around he said, “I love the change in seasons and I really like seeing a new product every year. It keeps things interesting.” I asked him to give one reason why Gweneth Shoes are going to do well and his response was, “They are simple chic shoes with a little twist.” It’s as simple as that and I hope they continue to grow in popularity. I love meeting good people who love what they do!!
Thanks for the tour Gary!!!  Hope to see you in NY next week….