Top 5 Footwear Trends for Spring 2014 ~ I Heart Heels

Twice each year, the footwear industry gathers at the semi-annual FN PLATFORM at MAGIC MARKET WEEK in Las Vegas to decide what trends will be on store shelves for the coming season. We’re thrilled to give you a peek of what will be trending this season from FN PLATFORM’s President of Footwear and global footwear industry expert Leslie Gallin: “I can’t remember a time when there have been so many options when it comes to heels,” says Leslie “Designers and consumers alike are really embracing a variety of silhouettes from edgy and architectural to chunky and practical.” Here are some of Leslie’s top picks for Spring ’14:

The Architectural Heel

“I call this the Lady Gaga influence. Designers are really pushing the envelope these days when it comes to footwear design. These styles are for the consumer who doesn’t shy away from cutting edge style and wants to have fun with their footwear.”

Featured style above: A by Marion Ayonote ‘Tusk Mule’ Cone Heel

The Kitten Heel

“The kitten heel returns again this season. Consumers are really embracing the smaller, lighter heel. It’s simply an easier shoe to wear and very flattering on the feet.”

Featured style above: Corso Como’s ‘Jesuit’ Kitten Heel

The ‘Single Sole’ Shoe

“The return of feminine, slimming heels continues with the popularity of the ‘single sole’ shoe. This classic silhouette will be seen in just about every collection and is destined to once again become a must-have staple.”

Featured style above: Nine West’s ‘Capricious’ Single Sole Heels

The Wedge Heel

“Women are still enjoying the combination of the added height and comfort that the wedge heel offers. There’s no sign of that heel going away anytime soon.”

Featured style above: Earth’s Petal Fern Wedge Sandal

The Season-Less Footwear

“Think booties that go from winter to summer, or the perennially-appropriate pointy-toe heel. Consumers aren’t letting the seasons dictate what they can and cannot wear anymore, wearing white after Labor Day for example. This mindset is also moving into footwear.”