Happy Friday everyone! I would like to introduce our newest contribuitor to ShoeBizness.com, Shelby Kruzhkov!! Her background includes buying within the footwear industry so I’m so excited to hear all she has to say. Welcome to the team Shelby!

Mary

Report Signature following the bandal/sanootie hybrid trend. Image from reportsignature.zappos.com

Ok, ok you caught me.  I am guilty.  I am the one always looking down as I walk, staring at your feet on the subway and as you pass me on the street.  I can’t help it, it’s an occupational hazard.  Ever since I entered the shoe business, I’ve forgotten how important it is (especially in the city) to look up when you walk (not to mention the obvious health benefits that come with avoiding high impact collisions).  NYC streets can be like sensory overload for those of us in retail (and let’s face it – we’re pretty easily distracted).  I know I’m not the only one.  You can’t help but be fascinated by who is wearing what, where and with what, etc.  It can be inspiring, confidence-building and sometimes, flat out hilarious.  Most passer-bys don’t seem to notice my gaze, but I do get my share of nasty glares occasionally.  So if you happen to catch me staring at your feet, please know that I’m not judging, I’m just observing (and often admiring!)…although, let’s be real, I am still judging a little bit.  Feel free to judge back though – I’ve got the shoes to take it…

So here goes my first chronicled observation of what is on the feet of NYC women right now.  Apparently, confusion abounds in downtown Manhattan this week with cooler-than-it-just-was (but still warm) weather.  Most city dwellers are hanging on to the last vestages of summer while others have jumped feet first into Fall (which is really the best way to go).

The city’s fashionistas are split – some choosing to keep wearing their favorite summer flats into the ground (I fess up to being a Summer-is-over denier too), while others are eagerly using the calendar as an excuse to show off their new fall boots.  While the fashion world’s been focused on Spring 2011, NY Fashion Week seems to have reminded everyone that it’s time to step up their game.  After all, in NYC, the sidewalks can be everyone’s own runway moment…

Those who are already rocking the tall boots are choosing flat-heeled options in black or brown slouchy leather.  Short boots seem to fall into one of two camps – the traditional western-style cowboy boot or the trendier rugged lace-up variety that comes in flat, heeled or wedge styles.  All of the above versions are distinctly casual and relaxed – usually coming off hip without looking like you actually thought about it (even though you know you did). 

Booties, on the other hand, are mostly higher heeled and seem to be where some of the most bold fashion moves are being taken.  Some spotted styles have me questioning my own professional ability to classify – is it a bootie or is it a sandal?  These bandal/sanootie hybrids have peep toes and chunkier straps than a typical sandal, so they feel like Fall, but they are more open and exposed than a regular bootie.  The merchant in me is perplexed, but the shoe diva in me loves the boundary blurring.

Finally, pointy toes are back and are noticeably everywhere, in pumps of all heel heights, ballet flats and even mules.  Although, somewhat ironically to me, this “trend” continues to be mostly embraced by those who wouldn’t consider it a trend at all – more a wardrobe staple of the polished career woman than a trickle-down effect of recent runways.  While a good pointy toe style is always chic, early observations would indicate this will be a key toe shape that will extend far beyond the office.

So for right now in the city, anything goes, so seize the opportunity and use this moment of seasonal-limbo as your excuse to wear whatever you want.  Sandal, boot, pump or some hybrid of all three – you can’t go wrong and, like every New Yorker knows, the snow (& salted pavements that follow) will be here before you know it.  Now may be your last chance to wear those impulse-purchased hot platform sandals that never got their night out this summer.  Enjoy!