1990s Century Shoes
But, more and more, people are getting in touch with their inner shoe and admitting, once and for all, how much they love them...
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Diversity has been a key concept in the 1990s and its influence is reflected very obviously in fashion. Shoes are no longer confined to a handful of styles; they're available in every conceivable style and made for any occasion. We perform a variety of daily activities, all of which require different footwear. Boots, sneakers, pumps — and sneaker-pumps — mules, sandals, and flats. Heavy, whimsical, clunky, dainty — you name it, it's out there.
Companies such as Skechers, Nike, and Birkenstock have been very successful at building brands and the accompanying loyal following. Advertising now emphasizes social and ecological values, or personal growth, just as often as the products themselves. |
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This year brings yet another recycling of style. Flats, particularly the ballet-style reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn, in white and pastels are making their way to shoe stores everywhere. Designers are finding that consumers, at least those over the age of 16, aren't as willing to sacrifice comfort for fashion. A brief flirtation with the stiletto pump, beautiful as they were, fell flat a few years ago. Many of us say, "Thank goodness that's over!"