THE MAKING of an ICON

Sam Edelman’s globally adored shoes are all created the same designs rooted in fashion, brand heritage, and a deep understanding of the customer. Libby Edelman, the brand’s co-founder, fashion director, and Sam’s life partner and perennial muse, prompts the designer’s creative process, leading the duo to develop product with an uncanny sense of what their customer loves. The many influences of Sam and Libby Edelman’s life spark inspiration for each collection, whether they’re admiring a Parisian passerby in the Marais or appreciating the craftsmanship of an equestrian saddle found at their farm. Quality, comfort, integrity, and consistency create the foundation for the brand’s offering and set the perfect stage for its key styles.

An icon isn’t just born; it develops over time. An icon starts as a style in the collection that fills a void in the customers’ closet. A desire for fashion and sensibility that fits the needs of a busy lifestyle is what Sam Edelman does best. When an item takes off at retail, it’s like magic. It becomes a collaboration across all teams to keep the momentum high and the customers wanting more. When that momentum builds and maintains itself over a period of time, an Icon is born. Once an item becomes indoctrinated to “Icon” status, it doesn’t just stay that way forever; it requires unwavering attention to detail and constant reinvention.

Throughout the years, there have been many “Edelman Icons.” Each season key styles emerge from the collection, culminating in an assortment of must-have items that become the basis of customers’ wardrobes. As time goes on, these iconic styles continue to take their place in the fashion industry as top-selling staples. When most fashion/footwear companies have one, two, or (maybe) three well-known styles, the Sam Edelman brand has 12 and counting.

Sam Edelman pays a close eye to the market and keeps an ear to the customer to react quickly to any updates that would improve the Icons. The brand’s iconic styles are the epitome of its long-standing heritage and a reflection of Sam Edelman’s core values of timeless, aspirational luxury fashion.

Each season a particular focus goes into ensuring that the fit and comfort are best-inclass and utilize the top quality materials possible. Each season the Icons bring new excitement by reintroducing themselves in the highest-grade materials, unexpected new colorways, and never-before-seen textures.

Let’s meet some of “The Icons”

Hazel Pump

A classic pump, with a twist. This timeless silhouette has an attention to detail that sets it apart from the rest. The quiet luxury and powerful impact of The Hazel’s expertly engineered fit, artisanal Italian last, and all-day wearability make this item the No. 1 U.S. dress pump, year after year (according to market research group NPD’s top footwear items report).

Bay Slide Sandal

The Bay Slide is a must-have warm weather staple. The double-E logo compliments Sam Edelman’s heritage croco leather sole, making it an easily recognizable brand classic. This slide, although simple, is far from average. It lends a luxurious feel with comfort that is tough to match.

Felicia Luxe Ballet Flat

A simple ballet flat with unmatched comfort. The Felicia is the perfect example of an icon reinvented. With its round toe and padded insole, this timeless style is being reintroduced in 2023 to look more elevated than ever. The delicate “SE” charm bow, redesigned sock, and new leather materials maintain the sophistication of this brand staple.

Gigi Sandal

The Gigi started as the ultimate vacation shoe…until it was everywhere—flying off the shelves of the world’s top boutiques and seen on the feet of every celebrity. This simple, elegant, and undeniably functional sandal is the foundation of the Edelman brand. It epitomizes the aspirational luxury that customers crave. If you’ve heard of Sam Edelman as “The King of the Flat Sandal,” The Gigi is exactly why.