FUTURA AUGUST 2015
DRESS TO IMPRESS
PREVIEWS OF THE SS16 COLLECTIONS
SOLID FOOTING
FOOTWEAR TRENDS FOR SS16
A CASUAL AFFAIR
TRENDS REPORTS FOR SS16 CASUALWEAR
WALKABOUT IN ENNIS
THREE INDEPENDENT RETAILERS UNDER THE MICROSCOPE
Simply ‘Celebrating
’
SUMMER!
Spring-Summer 2016
For more info contact:
Billy Casey Tel: 087 2611166 (R.O.I.) Mervyn Boyd Tel: 07768 671618 (N.I.)
For GENERAL info contact:
Head Office: +44 (0)1924 375651 Email: doubletwo@wsg.co.uk
www.doubletwo.co.uk
New for summer 2016... THE DRESS & JACKET EDIT For more info please contact
David Hanna Tel: 07836 362046 (N.I)
NEWS
EDITOR’S LETTER
W
elcome to the August edition of Futura, Menswear in Ireland and Footwear in Ireland. A mere month has passed since our last issue but, as ever in the fashion world, much can happen in even a short space of time. And that’s why this issue’s News section is larger than usual. From the repercussions of the shock recent closure of Clerys to the new appointments, new showrooms and everything in between, we’ve got the update on all the major stories both at home and abroad. Our fashion focus this issue, as with our July edition, is on the SS16 season. As such, we’ve got the second part of our season preview, which looks at some of the leading collections in menswear, ladieswear and footwear, as well as trend reports for the three respective sectors. We’ve trawled the length and breath of the country to bring you a series of interviews with independent retailers and agents, each of whom share their respective views and experiences of the fashion industry, as well as individual nuggets of wisdom. As ever, it all makes for interesting reading. We’re back again in October and, as ever, greatly appreciate your suggestions and feedback. Enjoy the read! Best wishes, Alexander Alexander Fitzgerald Features Editor mail@futuramagazine.ie
CONTENTS
P.2 NEWS
The need-to-know from the fashion and footwear sectors
P.10 ON A STEADY FOOTING Interview with footwear agent Robert Cambridge
P.12 GALVINSING A COUNTY Paul Galvin of Galvin Tullamore shares the secrets of his shop’s success and plans for its future
P.16 THAT SUMMER FEELING The leading trends for SS16 ladies’ casualwear
P.20 SHOPCALL Our mystery shopper ventures south to The Shoe Suite in Cork
P.22 HEART & SOLE The key trends for ladies’ SS16 footwear
P.24 SOLID FOOTING The hottest looks and styles for men’s footwear in SS16
P.26 A CASUAL AFFAIR The key trends in men’s SS16 casualwear.
P.28 WALKABOUT IN ENNIS We pay a visit to Chez Marie in Ennis
P.29 DRESS TO IMPRESS Previews of the SS16 collections
PUBLISHED BY: Sky Publishing, Castle House, Main Street, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14. TEL: 353(0)1 283 6782 EMAIL: mail@futuramagazine.ie WEB: www.futuramagazine.ie
Patrick J. Codyre Alexander Fitzgerald ASSISTANT EDITOR: Domhnall O’Donoghue PRINTING: Swift Print Solutions SUBSCRIPTION RATE: €69 a year (RoI) or €89 a year (Rest of the World) © 2015 Sky Publishing . All Editorial contents and all advertisement artwork prepared by the publisher. MANAGING EDITOR: FEATURES EDITOR:
Cover Image: Dresswear from the Skopes Stock collection.
August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 1
NEWS
NEWS COMPANY THAT RAN CLERYS OFFICALLY WOUND UP OCS Operations Limited, the company that ran Clerys Department Store before its recent unexpected closure, has officially ceased to operate. In early July, Ireland’s High Court appointed joint liquidators for the company and called for it to be wound up. There were no objections to the application. It has also been reported that the newly-appointed liquidators will be investigating the conduct of the former directors of OCS in the year prior to Clerys’ liquidation. These directors have also been ordered to provide the liquidators with a statement of affairs. OCS Operations recorded a loss of over €2 million for the 12 months prior to Clerys’ liquidation.
INTERIM EXAMINER APPOINTED TO BEST MENSWEAR Best Menswear, the well-respected suit provider that employs over 130 staff members throughout Ireland, have been one of the biggest casualties following the closure of Clerys Department Store and, as such, an interim examiner has been appointed to its operating company. Since the closure of Clerys where Best lay claim to a sizeable concession store – the largest out of its 13-strong nationwide portfolio – the business has faced enormous problems with maintaining 2 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
a steady cash flow, a court has heard. Speaking on behalf of the company, Rossa Fanning explained that Best’s current difficulties are as a direct result of the loss of some €270,000 held by Clerys in trust for Best – a figure that incorporated both past sales and the loss of trading revenues since the O’Connell Street emporium closed its doors. Furthermore, approximately €500,000 worth of stock was also locked into the Clerys building and could not be sold, Fanning mentioned. Even though Best gained access to this stock, some seven days following the closure, according to Fanning, it remains unable to use its largest store and is expected to suffer significantly as a consequence. Ms Justice Caroline Costello said she was satisfied to grant court protection to the company and appointed Declan McDonald of Price WaterhouseCooper as interim examiner pending the hearing of the petition for examinership, which is expected shortly. Allied Irish Banks is the company’s main creditor and is owed €12.6 million, while trade creditors are owed almost €12 million, the court also heard.
UNOFFICIAL CLERYS POP-UP SHOP OPENS ON PARNELL STREET Best Menswear, one of Ireland’s leading suit providers and a principle casualty in the closure of Clerys department store, has recently started operating a liquidation store in the city’s Parnell Street. Since opening, strong sales have been reported. It is thought the Best Menswear is not set to make a profit from this venture; instead, it is simply the possible solution to clearing the vast amounts of stock it was left with following the department store’s sudden demise. The manager and majority of workers at the pop-up outlet are also reported to be former Clerys employees. Open seven days a week, it is thought that the pop-up store will be in operation for roughly a month, by which time the remaining stock will be expected to be sold. Most of its items boast reductions of as much as 50 per cent off the original price. The venture has also no link to OCS Operations Limited, the company that managed Clerys’ day-today operations. Concession holders that were based in Clerys claim they are owed north of €2 million in cash from their own direct sales proceeds, which OCS Operations was supposed to have held in trust. Several media outlets reported that up to 50 concession holders could share about €500,000 in compensation under a plan drafted by the newly appointed liquidators.
NEWS For Appointments contact:
LYNCH AGENCIES
62A Lower Camden Street, Dublin 2.
Tel: Paul Lynch, 087 146 6528 E: paul@lynchagencies.com
Now Showing : Extensive Stock Support AW15, New Mix & Match Service, SS16 Collection August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 3
NEWS
SHOWING OFF: NEW SHOWROOMS
STATE-OF THE ART NEW SHOWROOM FOR LYNCH AGENCIES Paul Lynch of Lynch Agencies has unveiled his newly refurbished showroom at 62A Camden Street in Dublin 2. The light-filled space has been completely revamped to create an impressive space in which to showcase Lynch Agencies’ various brands. “All of our brands have developed strongly over the last few years, with the collections improving and expanding so we wanted to represent them in best possible facilities,” Lynch explains. The two new modern showrooms have been built from scratch to the highest standards and are located above the existing Bugatti showrooms, which have also been updated and enhanced. One showroom is exclusive to White Label, which Lynch has been representing since January. “It was always part of the plan once we took on White Label to have a stand alone showroom, dedicated to showing the full collection,” he mentions. “It’s a fantastic collection and we delighted to be working with AF White.” The second showroom houses Lynch’s existing collections: Sunwill Trousers, Hatico, Pure, S4 Outerwear, Falabella and Shine Original. Each brand has been given its own section with the respective brands complementing one another other, offering an extensive choice for buyers. Lynch’s brother, Stephen, represents the Bugatti label in the two showrooms below, showcasing the full collection of outerwear, jeans, chinos, knitwear, shirts, shoes, jackets and accessories. The Lynch brothers are, needless to say, delighted with the latest expansion to the business and are excited to be showing all their customers the new facilities and new collections over the coming months.
4 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
ARNOTTS ADDS NEW BRANDS TO ITS LINE-UP In July, Bestseller, the hugely-successful Danish fashion house, launched five brands at Arnotts. Vero Moda, Vila, Only, Noisy May and Pieces all now have an extensive presence in the Henry Street department store. These new concessions are located in the basement beside Mango and Topshop and offer a wide range of the latest ladieswear styles. The area also boasts a state-of-the-art fit-out, featuring wall-to-wall on-trend fashion, which caters to all tastes from chic to street. The five brands have already developed a keen following in Ireland with many stores and concession stores having proven extremely popular over the years.
FASHION CITY PREPARES FOR UPCOMING EVENT Fashion Coming Together, a week-long showcase of stock for both Spring ‘16 and A/W ‘15, will open on Sunday, 16 August at The Park in the Fashion City complex, Ballymount. Irish Companies showing at the popular event include Avalon Fashions, B & D Design, Bellina Creations, Brookway, Christopher Wren, Decollage, Eurocollection, FC Moda, Flairline, Kate & Pippa, Niall Scanlan Agencies, OC Fashions and Rory McGurk Agencies. Many of the companies will be launching their S/S ‘16 collections but there will also be several companies presenting their new Autumn ‘15 stock. Opening times on Sunday are 9.30am - 6pm, and from 9am – 5.30pm during the week. Fashion City has become the largest permanent destination for supplies in ladieswear, menswear, childrenswear and accessories for the Irish retail clothing sector. Based conveniently off the M50, it is now in its 12th year.
SONYA LENNON AND BRENDAN COURTNEY
LENNON AND COURTNEY TEAM UP WITH DUNNES Irish fashion duo Sonya Lennon and Brendan Courtney, the designers behind the Lennon Courtny ladieswear label, continue their march for global domination with news that they have joined forces with Dunnes Stores. Due out in September, Lennon Courtney at Dunnes Stores will comprise of 20 pieces, notably dresses and separates as well as wardrobe fixers – something the Off the Rails duo has become renowned for in Ireland. This highly-anticipated collection comes following five seasons as an independent label; however, this move means that their designs will no longer be available in independent boutiques. Boasting their own store, The Central Dairy, on Dublin’s Stephen Street, the pair are not the first designers to collaborate with the chain. Paul Costelloe, Carolyn Donnelly, Leigh Tucker and Helen James have all signed up with Dunnes Stores in recent years. A statement from much-loved store said that the addition of Lennon Courtney added “to the growing reputation of Dunnes Stores as the premium high-street store group for Irish design.” Outside of this latest venture, the two fashionistas are having much success with their other business project, FrockAdvisor, the social fashion commerce platform.
BRAND LEADERS IN MENS AND LADIES WEAR
NEWS
N E W S h o w r o o m s @ Fa s h i o n C i t y I K K S - C U LT U R E - CO S T E R CO P E N H A G E N - C H A R L I S E - G A R C I A - CO LO U R S & S O N S
LONDON | MANCHESTER | DUBLIN Contact: Unit 41A First Floor Fashion City, Ballymount Road Dublin 12, | Tel: +353 (0)831 220 405 E mail: scott.tcashowroom@gmail.com August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 5
NEWS
SHOWING OFF: NEW SHOWROOMS
DEREK LAWLOR AND JILL DE BURCA
CREATE AT BROWN THOMAS CELEBRATES BEST IN IRISH DESIGN & CRAFT
NEW SHOWROOM FOR TCASHOWROOM AND DOUBLE H Fashion agencies TCASHOWROOM and Double H are operating from a new showroom in Ballymount’s Fashion City. Established in 2009, TCASHOWROOM has become one of the leading fashion agencies and distributors within the UK and Ireland, handling brands such as IKKS, Coster Copenhagen, Culture and Charlise. With the opening of its new showroom at 41A Fashion City, it now has three showrooms – London, Manchester and Dublin – throughout the UK and Ireland, according to Scott Bonnes, who looks after the Ireland account. Double H, meanwhile, includes brands such as Garcia jeans, Colours & Sons and Casual Friday amongst its portfolio. Hopes are high for the success of the 15,000 sq ft showroom, which provides a stylish showcase for the two agencies to display their respective brands. “It’s a great size and benefits from lots of light. We’ve really put our own stamp on it,” says Bonnes.
6 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
Brown Thomas, one of Ireland’s most exclusive department store, recently launched the fifth year of Create, a showcase celebrating the best of Irish innovation and design. Running until 16 August, Create features almost 50 Irish designers. Across ready-to-wear, names include Mariad Whisker, Richard Malone and Derek Lawlor for Ethologie; accessories is represented by Davina Lynch and Art on Fashion by Celine McGill, while milliners include Laura Kinsella, Aisling Ahearn, Michael Mullins and John Shevlin. In terms of jewellery, designers such as Bláithín Ennis, Maria Dorai Raj and Vivien Walsh will all be on show as will the swimwear range, Mona Swims, by Carla Johnson. Shoes by Rose Rankin are a highlight in the footwear category. This year, menswear, footwear and craft design will be incorporated into the event for the first time. The spaces allocated to the designers throughout the entire luxury flagship Grafton street store give the chosen talents the chance to sit alongside some of the world’s most prestigious international brands and gain invaluable experience from Ireland’s luxury
EDEN PARK RENEW SPONSORSHIP OF IRELAND RUGBY TEAM Eden Park, the prestigious French fashion brand which is represented in Ireland by Ollie Campbell, has renewed its sponsorship with the IRFU and the Ireland rugby team. The contract, which will run until the Rugby
RICHARD MALONE
BLAITHIN ENNIS
fashion retailer. Furthermore, for the duration of the event, the iconic Grafton Street windows are dedicated to Irish Design and, as such, feature a selection of the talents selected. In 2011, Brown Thomas launched the Create initiative led by Fashion Director Shelly Corkery with the primary aim of supporting the best of Irish talent and taking them out of the studio and onto the shop floor. Over the past five years, Create has been a platform for establishing some of Ireland’s leading designers, including Heidi Higgins, Lucy Nagle, Lucy Downes, KDK and Chloe Townsend, who all currently have collections available in Brown Thomas. Brown Thomas Fashion Director Shelly Corkery said: “We are extremely proud that this is the fifth year of Create at Brown Thomas and that it has become the annual event for emerging Irish designers to showcase their collections.” CREATE will feature on all floors in the Dublin store with pop ups also taking place in Brown Thomas Cork and Limerick from 21 August to 21 September.
THE SIX NATIONS-WINNING IRISH TEAM WEARING EDEN PARK
World Cup in Japan in 2019, will see the national squad kitted out in both formal and casual wear. Eden Park is available in leading retailers throughout Ireland, including Frewen & Aylward in Dún Laoghaire and Hanley & Co. in Galway.
SPRING / SUMMER ‘16 C
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(+44) 113 2402211 www.skopeswholesale.com
Leon Linen Blazer
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Vigo Linen Blazer and Waistcoat
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Bilbao Wool Mix Blazer
Gijon Striped Blazer and Padstow Chino
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Segredo Cotton Blend Blazer and Waistcoat
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Andrew Blue Linen Mix Blazer
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Andrew Brown
Bude Stretch Waist Chino Shorts
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Madrid and Chepstow Mix and Match suits
Kennedy and Joss Mix and Match Suits
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Darwin Mix and Match Suits
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Sharpe and Palmer Mix and Match Suits
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Kennedy Mix and Match Suit
www.skopeswholesale.com (+44) 113 2402211
Scout Mix and Match Suit
Sebastian Linen Blend Blazer
SPRING / SUMMER ‘16 C
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(+44) 113 2402211 www.skopeswholesale.com
Wortmann Gruppe Internationale Schuhproduktionen · Detmold/Germany · Phone: +49 52 31 605.129 · Fax: +49 52 31 605.5.129 · E-mail: sales@wortmann.com · wortmann.com Tamaris Ireland • David Coogan • 10, Shrewsbury Manor • Drogheda, Co. Louth • Phone: +353 41 9847369 • Mobile: +353 86 2779480 • E-mail: david.coogan@wortmann.com • tamaris.eu
NEWS
SHOWING OFF: NEW SHOWROOMS
SINCLAIR WHITE AND PAUL LYNCH
REVAMPED WHITE LABEL SHOWN IN NEW FASHION CITY STYLE IN EXCLUSIVE SHOWROOM FOR ELLI NEW SHOWROOM WHOLESALE Elli Wholesale, a newly opened stock wholesaler, is operating from a new showroom at 37 Fashion City in Ballymount, Dublin 24. The company offers a unique wholesale service of supplying proven best-sellers, which are updated weekly.
BOUTIQUES SHOWCASE THEIR WARES AT DUBLIN FASHION SHOW Fashion Fixxer’s The Boutique Fashion Show took over Dublin’s glamorous Café En Seine recently with 13 of the city’s best boutiques showcasing a total of 75 outfits. There was a great variety of both casual and glamorous outfits on offer including Mac Doll, Lotus and Fran and Jane, all of whom presented full-length dresses, while Elli Boutique favoured a summer-flavoured look. 8 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
“We are delighted with the development,” says Sinclair White of AF White. “We have worked very hard on the collection in recent times. We have added new fits, new fabrics with fashionable details and expanded the overall collection, so we really wanted our customers to be able to view the entire collection in
AF White recently appointed Paul Lynch of Lynch Agencies as their agent for their White Label collection, which is now showing at Lynch Agencies’ refurbished showroom on Dublin’s Camden Street. The label has been carefully modified by Lynch and Sinclair White to provide particularly appeal to the Irish market
the best way possible.” “There have been fantastic developments in the collection,” says Lynch. “We are now offering a full Mix-and-Match service, for example, and we are also showing a new White Label Luxury collection of suits in wool rich fabrics for SS16 for the first time.” The current White Label ranges have been re-designed, Lynch mentions, with new labelling, new linings, new pockets details and new colour options making White Label a particularly attractive proposition for buyers. Other additions to the collection include new shirt patterns, slim fit blazer, fashion chinos and shoes. Available to view in the showroom is the full AW15 collection, with an extensive suit offering, in different styles and fits. The AW15 coats and jacket collection is also on display along with the full shirt offering.
Select and Lula Belle brought the new label Diffusion to the catwalk with soft glamorous jersey. Maven on Wicklow Street presented her own Ms Beatty designs in silk and cashmere while Anastasia and Miss E brought both Irish and international designers to the runway. Neola and Belle Boutique added some summer glamour to the show with dresses evocative of races and wedding seasons. Serena featured a smart mature look with funky and elegant footwear, while Heaven Scent brought a little variety to the show, doubling as a florist and boutique. Fashion Fixxer labelled it ‘the Dublin boutique crawl’ and on the night, Lara Mooney, founder of Fashion Fixxer, emphasised to the audience the merit of taking a day to visit these boutiques and the beautiful areas they are situated in.
Mooney works in Elli Wholesale in Fashion City, while her own company, Fashion Fixxer, is a marketing company that specialises in web design and photo editing for email marketing and social media. The Boutique Fashion Show was Fashion Fixxer’s first event with the next fashion show scheduled for September.
NEWS
SHOWING OFF: NEW SHOWROOMS
BROWN THOMAS IS UNDERGOING A €1.5 FACELIFT
BROWN THOMAS FRENCH CONNECTION’S BEGINS RENOVATIONS TO ITS FAÇADE NASSARPOUR FOR NEW ROLE AT LITTLE MISTRESS FATEMEH NASSARPOUR
Little Mistress Group, the British Retail company that was launched in 2011 with the Little Mistress brand, has poached French Connection’s Fatemeh Nassarpour and appointed her new Head of International Sales and Development. In her previous position, Nassarpour was the International Sales Manager; at Little Mistress, she will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies in key markets that include the Middle East and Asia. “The addition of Fatemeh to the team in this new role is part of the company’s intention to dovetail the branding and strategy of the Little Mistress Group into the international sector, in line with our commitment to expand in the international market,” revealed Mark Smith, chairman of the group.
ISWA: “VAT ON SCHOOL UNIFORMS CAUSING HARDSHIP” The Irish School Wear Association (ISWA) has called on the Minister for Finance to reduce the VAT on all school uniforms to zero per cent, to assist hard-pressed parents. The Association drew attention to the fact that
Brown Thomas, one of Ireland’s most prestigious department stores, has begun a €1.5 million renovation of the façade of its flagship branch in the capital. Hoarding has been erected outside the building store, which is located on the city’s main shopping thoroughfare, Grafton Street. Over the coming months, work with focus on restoring some brickwork, renewing lead flashing and repairing some water damage. In recent times, some €20 million has been invested in modernising the entire store with the renovations to the façade its latest phase. It is estimated that 12 weeks will be needed to complete the work. Latest accounts for the company, which boasts stores in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway, and BT2 outlets in Grafton Street, Henry Street, Dundrum and Blanchardstown, show it made a profit of €4.7 million off turnover of €146 million in the year ending February 2014.
uniforms for many young people, some even in primary school, are being hit with a 23 per cent VAT rate, because of size. Speaking on behalf of ISWA, Karen Grant said: “It is clear that the measurement restrictions in place for the zero per cent rate do not adequately cover today’s school children. The zero rate should be expanded to ensure that all school uniform items, for school going children of any age and size, are not subject to VAT. This is the fairest way to assist parents to meet the costs of sending children to school.” ISWA, which represents more than 300 school
JOULES MOVES TO PERMANENT SHOWROOM AT FASHION CITY Having enjoyed double digit growth for the last three seasons, Joules has moved to a new showroom at 26B Fashion City, where is it currently has full displays of its SS16 womenswear, menswear and childrenswear and babywear collections, as well as a range of homewares. The move comes on the back of much positive news for the brand, including steady growth that sees Joules on target for SS16 to exceed the 20% growth it enjoyed in SS15. Similarly positive growth was achieved for AW14 and AW15, with the seasons registering growth of 17 per cent and 13 per cent respectively. “We took the decision to invest in a country Manager to oversee the day-to day-running of Ireland, which has paid dividends for us,” explains John Oakes of Joules. “We have had pop-up showrooms at Carton House in Kildare and also at Tattersalls but have now moved to a more permanent location at Fashion City.
wear suppliers and manufacturers nationally, firmly believes that parents should not have to incur any more expense than is absolutely necessary when sending their children to school. It is a medical fact that children are larger, taller and heavier now than they were when VAT rates were introduced in 1972. “The main issue for many parents in these days of austerity is the cost of living and adding 23 per cent tax to the cost of a school uniform - due to lazy legislation - must be stopped. We are calling on the government to change the VAT so that all school uniforms, of whatever size, be zero rated for VAT purposes,” Ms Grant concluded. August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 9
INTERVIEW
On A Steady Footing As the agent for three strongly performing shoe brands in Ireland, Robert Cambridge is well versed in the footwear industry. Here, he explains the ethos of the respective brands and how they operate in the Irish market HOW ARE THE VARIOUS BRANDS PERFORMING IN IRELAND? The three brands are very individual in styling and performing well. The Garvalin brand is extremely diverse – everything from shoes and sandals to long and short boots, canvas and jellies can all be found – and appeals to both mums and children. The shoes are all made with high-quality materials, so the Garvalin team is rightly proud of its core brand. Agatha Ruiz De La Prada is named after the famous fashion designer who keeps her finger firmly on the pulse of her namesake. It’s an aspirational brand for fashion-conscious little girls who like to party. The styling is extremely colourful and interesting with many mums asking if the shoes are available in their size! The third brand, Biomecanics, is the latest and most innovative brand as these shoes offer some unique features. They are endorsed by the Biomechanics Institute of Valencia as the most important feature is the unique construction and specially created soling that allows a child to go from crawling, to toddling, to walking naturally. Biomecanics’ first walkers are designed to nurture infants to take their first steps safely, comfortably and with confidence: the flexibility, grip zones and steadying heel allow the shoes to support the foot from crawling to walking and no other shoe in the world has these unique features. Biomechanics has been identified by AEP (Spanish Paediatric Association) as being the only shoe with such support. The evidence of the brand’s success is in the loyal support of parents who once having trying Biogateo,
Biomecanics
Robert Cambridge
the first shoes within the Biomecanics collection, not only continue Garvalin to buy the shoes for their children but become the brand’s best means of promotion through recommendation to family and friends. Many of the features of Biogateo are then carried into the larger sizes for school age, with anti-bacteriaimpregnated insoles and soft breathable leathers, keeping hot and busy feet fresh and feeling good throughout the school day.
WHAT IS THE TARGET MARKET FOR THE RESPECTIVE BRANDS? Agatha reaches the fashion-conscious girls that like to be on-trend, whereas Biomecanics will appeal to mums who like foot health and style rolled into one, and school shoes that will keep looking and feeling good. Garvalin, meanwhile, appeals to the majority of consumers with its styling and great price points. There really is something for everyone, which is why so many independent retailers like to stock all three brands but market them individually.
WHAT ARE THE PLANS IN THE MEDIUM AND LONG-TERM FOR YOU AND THE BRANDS? Garvalin, Agatha and Bio are with me 100% and looking to get the right balance with good retailers in Ireland. These brands will be found in quality retailers who understand
10 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
the importance of combining good fitting and fashion, but there are always new shops opening and we are happy to work with them and encourage their entrepreneurism.
HAVE YOU ANY STOCKROOMS IN IRELAND? Yes, stockrooms work extremely well for me and my customers. I would hold these twice a year at five different locations around Ireland Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Athlone. I also enjoy doing shop calls for new accounts or customers who for some reason can’t make my stockrooms. Garvalin My September stockrooms appointments are filling up nicely.
WHAT PRICE STRUCTURE IS USED FOR THE COLLECTIONS? In the footwear industry, you to tend to pay for what you get. Agatha Ruiz De La Prada We are not the cheapest, but we are also not the most expensive, therefore I would say that we are balanced in the middle of all good continental brands and great value for money. The majority of our products are leather uppers and leather linings (all Biomecanics have leather uppers and leather linings).
WHAT MEDIA ADVERTISING ARE YOUR BRANDS LOOKING AT? Biomecanics will be promoting the Biogateo range both online and through social media and these can be viewed online at www. biomecanics.com
INTERVIEW
Galvinsing a County Having spent the best part of 65 years impressing customers from near and far with their fine of mix of casual and formal collections, the family-run Galvin Tullamore has become a first-stop shop for anyone who shares its keen eye for style. Second-generation Paul Galvin recently discussed the secrets to the shop’s success and revealed some of the exciting plans that are afoot for the popular business For the best part of 65 years, Galvin Tullamore has been busy kitting out the men of Offaly and surrounding counties with their diverse selection of offerings, whether it’s international brands such as Gant, Armani and Barbour, home-grown collections from Irish personalities including Brent Pope and Tommy Bowe, or their considerable mix of casual, outdoor and leisurewear options from the likes of Superdry, G-Star, Farah and Penguin. More impressively, Galvin Tullamore stocks over 1,300 suits on any given day, with more than 50 top labels available. Their remarkable story starts in 1950 when original founders, husband-and-wife duo John and Della Galvin, seized upon an opportunity to fulfil a lifelong dream and opened their own store. Having cut their teeth in Scally’s, a local department store, the Galvins took all the experience and, armed with good old-fashioned determination, ventured out on their own. The original site was a modest building, directly opposite its current location, but it was only a matter of time before something bigger was required, thanks to the immediate popularity of the store. Some 20 years after welcoming its first customers, the entrepreneurial pair upped sticks and moved to a more sizeable building, a location that has served the family in good stead ever since. Thanks to increasing demand, Galvin Tullamore has witnessed four in-house expansions over the years, most recently in 2014, which Paul Galvin, the son of John and Della, describes as a “reinvestment in the business”, one that has “been very successfully received.”
THE TEAM AT GALVIN TULLAMORE
“It was an extremely different landscape when the business first opened,” Galvin, who bought the business in 1989, reveals. “My parents were faced with many obstacles that we don’t have to contend with today. For instance, access to finance was almost impossible in the Ireland of 1950s and 60s. As my father used to say: ‘The only way you could get money from a bank manager was to convince him that you really didn’t need it!’ “Most shops at that time were general stores,” he adds. “They catered towards men, ladies and children - and even household – but Galvin Tullamore only sold men’s clothing, concentrating on quality menswear, which was a brave move in the cash-strapped Ireland of the 1950s and 60s.” In that regard, very little has changed seven decades later with Galvin Tullamore still continuing to invest its energies into dressing the men of Ireland alone, rather than expanding into ladieswear, a decision Galvin firmly stands by. “I have a brother who was involved in ladieswear but, as a victim of the recession, unfortunately had to close last year. For me, I’ve grown up in menswear and have been in here since I was 16. So no, I’m not tempted to diversify!” Ironically, it’s diversity that has kept Galvin Tullamore in shoes throughout the years, and while the fairer sex might not be catered for; men, be they teenagers or centenarians, are spoiled for choice with the full gamut of stock available to meet their needs. “We have five distinct areas,” Galvin explains. “Firstly, there’s Young Fashion, which is aimed towards those aged between
12 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
16 and 30 with brands that include Hilfiger, Levis and Diesel. “Then, there’s Lifestyle Casual for customers over 30 who gravitate towards labels such as Hugo Boss, Ted Baker and Armani Jeans. “Thirdly, we have formalwear with suits from the likes of Remus, Lambretta, Douglas and Carl Gross,” Galvin continues. “The other two areas are footwear and our hire department for formal occasions such as weddings.” This wide and varied treasure chest of sartorial delights, which Galvin estimates to be in the value of €1.5 million, is just one of the many attributes that distinguishes Galvin Tullamore from its competitors. “We’re a one-stop-shop for men and guys love this - one location, get everything, no traipsing around! Shoes, suits, jackets, casualwear - top to toe!” Galvin says with a smile. “Guys generally hate shopping. We can make it quick and painless, all under one roof, for every occasion and event.” And, if anyone is in a position to comment on the shopping habits of men, it’s Galvin who, over the years, has invested heavily in developing strong relationships with his customers, dedicating an endless amount of time in getting to know what appeals to them – and, indeed, what doesn’t. “It’s all about building up a long-term relationship,” he emphasises. “We literally know the majority by name - and we have a lot of customers.” While Galvin has identified that these customers are definitely price-conscious post-recession, he is also aware that quality supersedes all else and, as such, a team of four
INTERVIEW
INTERIOR SHOTS OF THE NEWLY REFURBISHED GALVIN TULLAMORE STORE
is continuously travelling the world to trade events – whether it be Moda in Birmingham or Pitti in Florence – in order to source the best that the fashion industry has to offer. “We never compromise on quality. We stand behind the quality of our clothing at all times,” he asserts. And, speaking of that aforementioned economic downturn, unlike many other businesses throughout the world, Galvin Tullamore embraced the difficulties that followed head-on, and has subsequently explored numerous avenues to ensure that the much-loved store remains in a position to continue weathering the storm now and into the future. “It was great to survive the recession,” says Galvin, whose brother Paul, along with his wife, Hillary, run the successful Galvin For Men in Mullingar. “Initially, we had to examine each and every company expense but, thankfully, no staff was let go and there were no wage cuts. They’re too valuable to the overall business.” “While not comprising on quality, we focused on giving value to our customers. We worked with key suppliers to get the maximum value from them, which we then passed on to our customers, through promotions and such.” Full of vim and vigour, Galvin Tullamore also investigated all advertising and social media opportunities, meaning that they expanded their customer range beyond the catchment area of Offaly. “Advertising has always been very important to us,” Galvin mentions. “We are always trying to expand by advertising on
RTE Radio, Today FM, Newstalk, Midlands 103, Sky TV and print media. This has been on-going since the 1980s. “But, it has gotten more complicated in recent years – and we needed to be actively involved in social media, as well as on radio and in print media. “We’re not selling online yet - we aim to be doing so by early 2016 - but social media is very important. We fully embraced Facebook and developed our website and employed someone full-time to work solely on managing our social media. A lot of people check out both the brands and the store itself online before they go shopping.” Galvin is the first to admit that it is these employees who have enabled the store to go from strength to strength and who, in turn, ensure that the customers are given the absolute best in service. “I cannot emphasise how important our staff are,” he stresses. “We work strongly and closely as a team. Our customers love being able to come back and deal with the same person as before. “I take great pride in customers looking for someone in particular; it means that they trust that person and have built up a relationship with them. “Our future depends on customer service. As an independent menswear retailer, we must constantly strive to ensure that our customer service standards never slip. In fact, we must strive to improve customer service in whatever way possible. I cannot emphasise this too strongly.” Strong praise is extended, too, to Galvin’s sister, Teresa, whom he describes as “my
best friend”, and mentions how she is “of huge importance to me and the business”, and looks much of the behind-the-scenes business, such as the shop’s POS system and the “the complete running of the office.” With so many years in the trade, Galvin is a good man to turn for any up-and-coming entrepreneurs looking to break into the fashion industry. What advice would be offer? “Never comprise on quality and service, despite the economy,” he advises. “Also, I’m learning all the time. That’s the one thing about fashion: every six months, fashion is like a clean slate with new looks and new brands. You never stop learning in menswear and in fashion generally! And so to the future. What is in store over the coming 65 years? “Firstly, to mark 65 years in business, we will be running a major charity event as a thank you to our community for all the loyal support over the years,” Galvin announces. “Beyond that, we will be looking for new brands, while constantly analysing how the market is going. We have experienced growth every month for the past 12 months, and especially since the re-launch of our totally renovated store last October. “We are increasing our advertising budget, especially national advertising, and hope to expand the size of the store again in the next three to five years. “In order to compete and survive in retailing, you have to make shopping more and more of an experience. We are determined to establish Galvin Tullamore as a premium brand name: a brand of brands.” Consider it done. August 2015 | Futura & Menswear Magazine 13
NEWS
ISME: “GOVERNMENT MUST FOCUS ON RETAIL SECTOR FOR RECOVERY” In response to the recent CSO retail sales figures, the Irish Small and Medium Enterprise Association expressed concern at the failure of the government to focus on the small and medium retailers. The association warned government that there was more to retail than foreign multiples and department stores, and called for a concentrated focus on SME retail costs, online sales and the prevention of the decaying of town centres to prevent closures and job losses. While monthly retail sales figures dropped 2.5 per cent in volume, there was an annual increase of 7.4 per cent in volume and 4.3 per cent in value. When the motor trade is excluded, sales were 5.5 per cent higher in volume and 2.5 per cent higher in value. ISME CEO, Mark Fielding argued that despite the fact that overall annual retail figures are positive, “there is a persistent squeeze on margins and domestic retailers are struggling to adapt to
MARK FIELDING, CEO OF ISME
the changing retail environment and need help getting their business online. “Consumers are turning to the internet and it is difficult for indigenous SMEs to compete. Assisting SMEs to capitalise on the changing world of retail should be a government priority.” Fielding also criticised the government who, he felt, seemed disinterested in adopting the recommendations of a recent Oireachtas report regarding rural town centre revitalisation. “Unless local government tackles the issue of closed shop fronts on our once vibrant main streets, we will continue to see job losses and further business closures. Revitalising our town centres is an important community and tourism issue and must be addressed. “Retail has become the forgotten sector in government policy initiatives. From a social, local economy and tourism perspective, government must focus on the retail sector as an essential pillar of the recovery,” Fielding concluded.
NEW SHOE AND HANDBAG LABEL LAUNCHES Ennio Mecozzi, the new luxury ladies footwear and handbag brand, has just been unveiled. The result of a collaboration between thirdgeneration shoemaker Ennio Mecozzi and Irish footwear designer Anita Flavin, the label prides itself on using the highest quality of workmanship and the finest components and materials in the world. Inspired by classic French and Italian styles, the collection consists of four different heel heights available in three different styles each, in two colours. Ennio Mecozzi’s collection of pointed court shoes are elegant and sophisticated, ranging from party styles featuring metallic cracked leather to smart and chic patent leather and suede heels. The shoe collection, which already incudes Amal Clooney and Poppy Delevigne amongst its clientele, is complemented by matching clutch bags allowing the wearer to complete her outfit with style and ease.
KICKERS AND TOPSHOP COLLABORATE TO MARK MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY To mark the 40th anniversary of its range of Kick Hi shoes, Kickers is set to collaborate with Topshop on a six-piece collection. Based on the original Kick Hi shoe, which was launched in 1975, the Topshop x Kickers collection will feature animalprint leathers, cut-out uppers and marbled soles. While only available in Topshop’s Oxford Street store, Irish customers can purchase the footwear via the fashion chain’s online store.
14 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
SMARTPHONE SHOPPING SOARS A recent report reveals that customers are calling upon their Smartphones more than ever when it comes to making purchases online with the fashion industry experiencing the biggest boost. There has been a 54 per cent spike in customers using their Smartphones when searching for clothes online, while tablets have seen an 11 per cent increase.
FOREVER 21 CONTINUES TO RECORD LOSSES The lone Irish branch of Forever 21, the popular global fashion chain, was the victim of a pre-tax loss of over €1.7 million in the financial year ending February 2014. With just one outlet in the Republic of Ireland, the news for the Jervis Street store was somewhat bittersweet. While still in the red, these recent figures are a marked decrease for the same period during the previous year when a loss of €12.5 million was recorded, although a large portion of this figure was the result of an €8 million impairment charge. The decrease in 2014’s losses was largely on account of a sizeable cut in administrative expenses. The number of staff was also reduced in 2014, those employed at the store dropped from 99 to 79. Sales in 2014 also faltered in comparison with 2013 when a figure of €9.3 million was recorded in comparison to the recent €8.5 million. Having opened in 2010, directors of the US chain have expressed their continued commitment to their Irish branch and are optimistic for its future thanks to maintaining a tight control over costs while continuing its investment to establish the brand awareness through marketing activities.
TRENDS
TRENDS: Ladieswear SS16 THAT SUMMER FEELING: There’s a distinctly casual vibe permeating the new SS16 ladies’ collections. Emphasis is on form but not at the expensive of function and comfort. The prevailing attitude is: it might look good, but it’s got to feel good, too! Distilling a bewildering array of looks and styles is never easy but the style commentators at Fashion Snoops have pinpointed four distinct womenswear trends for the season — Alive, Gen-U, Seamless Innovation and Global Commune — each with its own unique look and palette.
ALIVE
Based around home-grown influences, organic textures, and a magnified approach to looking at things such plant life and cellular structures, this visually appealing trend is about living life to the fullest. Ophelia, the women’s trend story for Alive, references a pre-Raphaelite painting and a Shakespeare character that lives in the rain forest. She is intertwined with nature for a tropical feeling. PALETTE: Green tones are key to the theme, while yellow, sunset gold and chartreuse are similarly important. Olive provides a versatile base colour, while the reddish orange hues of vermilion function as accent colours. Earthy browns and khaki finish off the earthy mix of hues. FABRICS: Materials are novelty fabrics such as jacquard, reptile, leaf-like abstracts, lace, tweed-like textures (as on this dress), and chiffon. Patterns are tropical, palm repeats, Amazonian motifs, plant inspiration, veins, and microscopic. Floral embroidery, appliqués, feathers, 3-D embellishments, cut-outs, and plunged necklines are important to the trend. KEY PIECES: Camisoles, oversized blouses, asymmetrical skirts with ruffle detail, culottes, wide-leg bottoms, palazzo pants, robe coats and shift dresses.
GEN-U
A younger, bolder trend, Gen-U appeals to the youth market and is all about a bold, creative, urban spirit. The women’s trend here, Candy Raver, is inspired by electronic dance music (EDM), with an electric, shiny look and an athletic, futuristic slant. Think shiny surfaces, attention-grabbing finishes and a wealth of detailing, such as hoods, zippered fronts, pockets, and buckles. PALETTE: Lemon yellow, candy apple red, deep magenta, melon pink, orchid purple, periwinkle and aqua. FABRICS: Materials are holographic, PVC, bonded fleece, distressed jersey and technical mesh. KEY ITEMS: Cropped silhouettes, fitted midriff T-shirts, wrap mini skirts, basketball shorts, jogger bottoms, parkas and bomber jackets.
16 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
SEAMLESS INNOVATION The third trend, Seamless Innovation, is inspired by activewear and centred around intelligent essentials and how we wear technology. It embodies urban minimalism with a sport edge and purposeful design with a technical balance of utilitarian softness. Details are prominent to the look and include zippers, suspenders, buckles, straps, shoulder cut-outs and elastic waistbands. The Women’s trend is called Active Duty, with a utility focus and modern, timeless silhouettes. There are slight military references and an active (but not sporty) vibe. PALETTE: Colours are minimal and include custard, orange rind aqua as accent colours. Hazy taupe, tailored grey, olive and navy provide the base tones.
TRENDS FABRICS: Cotton twill, gabardine, army surplus, linen, nylon, mesh and silk jersey. KEY ITEMS: Jumpsuits, wrap skirts, woven T-shirts, trench-style sleeveless coats with military detail, wide-leg pants, slim-silhouette midi skirts and parkas.
GLOBAL COMMUNE The fourth and final trend, Global Commune, captures a bohemian spirit with artisanal techniques, hippie inspiration, and a 1960s free-spirited craftmanship. The trend’s expression for women is called Commune, which is a deeper appreciation for world cultures and artisanal techniques. It applies a haberdashery approach for a unique feeling, and makes excellent use of saturated indigo tones, rumpled surfaces and tapestries, as well as fringed detail and embroidery. PALETTE: Copper, red, and persimmon with pops of dark teal and moonstone blue. Vintage indigo functions as a base colour. FABRICS: Tweed, jacquard, hand-loomed knits, collage effects, crochet and leather. Patterns have Art Nouveau and Japanese influences. Medallion prints and patchwork are also prominent. KEY ITEMS: Midi sheath dresses, pyjama pants, over-sized kimono-sleeved jackets, polo sweaters and collarless jackets.
Newly opened stock wholesaler with fresh stock arriving every week. With 35 years experience Mary selects the most beautiful fabrics, colours, and styles. Join our email list to receive images and use across social media. 37 Fashion City (next to Homans), Ballymount, Dublin 24. Ireland 00353 1 4009006 0851550207 elliwholesale@gmail.com www.elliwholesale.com Follow us on facebook
August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 17 Elli HP ad.indd 1
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
ICHI MAKES WELCOME RETURN TO IRISH MARKET After an absence of two years, ICHI has returned to the Irish market. Part of the DK company in Denmark and boasting over 1,500 stockists worldwide, ICII is looking to open 30 accounts throughout Ireland, according to Michael McCartan, who is handling the brand in the Irish market. The label’s new SS16 collection — which will be showcased at Pure and is available to view by appointment with Michael McCartan Agencies in their showroom at 26C Fashion City — encapsulates what the ICHI brand is all about. It offers up a host of fashionable, playful pieces and utilises light, transparent materials, bright pastel colours, hand-drawn prints, and feminine, menswear-inspired details. “We have chosen to play around with lighter tops in transparent qualities, which we have mixed with soft, attention-grabbing fabrics, and knitwear,” explains ICHI design manager, Sabine Skjødt Hansen.
WWW.ICHI.BIZ
Michael McCartan Agencies / 26C Fashion City / Ballymount Dublin / Ireland / 003538 62425577 / micheal67@gmail.com 18 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
IRELAND Ella Boo Limited Unit 36 Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24 Tel: + 353 – 1 – 4295709 / 4295553 Email: info@ellaboo.ie
UNITED KINGDOM Tate Fashions Bermuda Fashion House, 64B Roseville Road, Leeds LS8 5DR Tel: + 44 – 1132 – 459064 Fax: +44 – 1132 – 436547 Email: info@ellaboo.ie
SHOPCALL
The Shoe Suite, Cork Having recently been given a smart new interior, The Shoe Suite on Cork’s Maylor Street certainly looks the part. But how does it far in terms of stock and service? Our mystery shopper paid a mid-week visit to find out.
LOCATION Positioned on Maylor Street in Cork, The Shoe Suite has an enviable location, benefitting from a regular football in the area. Its immediate neighbours include a selection of fashion retailers such as Brown Thomas, Fran & Jane, Debenhams and Sheena’s Boutique.
transformed into an unusual display area for a selection of jewellery.
STAFF
An airy window display catches the eye with its smart presentation. New arrivals are clearly displayed while selected branding is used on the glass.
The size of the shop necessitates a reasonably large number of staff at all times. As such, our midweek visit coincided with five staff members on the shop floor. Each was immaculately presented and attentive. Of the two staff members we had direct contact with, both proved highly knowledge about stock and shoe styles and were quick to offer very helpful suggestions.
DÉCOR
DISPLAY
Inside, the décor and interior are clean and contemporary, making an immediate favourable impression. A mix of marble tiling and chocolate-coloured carpet look luxurious underfoot while directional lighting provides smart illumination overhead. Walls in off-white and green, meanwhile, give off an elegant feel, which is pervasive throughout the store. The attention to detail is impressive throughout. Clever touches such as an historic wall safe, which was discovered during the shop’s refit, has been adapted and cleverly
Display is conventional in style yet contemporary in design, comprising mainly of wall shelves and tables made from glass and MDF. These are used to display not just footwear but also a selection of accessories such as scarves, hats, gloves and bags.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
STOCK A genuinely impressive selection of stock includes a diverse range of leading footwear brands. FitFlop, Guess, Tamaris, Fly, Tommy Hilfiger and Marco Moreo are amongst the best-known labels. There’s also a number of
20 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
German brands such as Gabor, Reiker and Ara, as well as several shoes from Spanish footwear specialist Hispanitas. Other brands available include Marian, Pedro Anton, Mjus, Karen Koo and Le Babe.
VERDICT With a diverse stock at a wide range of prices, a highly competent staff and a clean and contemporary, The Shoe Suite doesn’t put a foot wrong.
SHOPCALL
SS16 Fashion City
31st August to 3rd September Room 4 Unit 23 Fashion City Upper Ballymount Road Dublin 24
Sea Friendly Machine Washable
no minimum orders
user friendly online portal
fast reorder service
The Footwear Industry Awards 2015
Children’s Footwear Brand of the Year Sizes range from newborn to EU 38. For more information contact Matt Wright on +44 7703 856072 or matt@pediped.com. www.pediped.com August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 21
TRENDS
TRENDS: Ladies’ Shoes SS16
HEART & SOLE
Farewell (almost), black and white. Hello, sun-kissed colours and earthy textures. An investigative trawl through the leading ladies’ SS16 footwear collections reveals an inspiring season teaming with warm colours, natural materials and, perhaps more surprisingly, clog-inspired silhouettes. With designers such as Gucci and Chloé showcasing 70s-inspired fashion and footwear on the runway —and high street giants H&M and Zara following up with flare and wide leg pants, head-to-toe denim and fringe for the masses—footwear brands are balancing the exaggerated shapes with sturdy wood heels, wedge and flatform espadrilles and gladiator sandals that are less warrior and more woodland nymph.
MENS AND LADIES FOOTWEAR NOW ON VIEW FROM ZARA BRANDS For Appointments please contact: David Woolfson / Zara Woolfson, 17 Northern Cross Business Park Dublin 11. Tel 01 834 7481 Mobile 087 2162935.
22 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
www.superfit.at
TRENDS
RETURN TO THE SEVENTIES
The return to the 70s is a big trend both in fashion and footwear. Chunky cloginspired footwear and platform boots are two distinctive styles that are expected to be amongst the season’s frontrunners. Open-toe mules on chunky wood heels lay the framework for more stylised options, including wood heels with denim straps embellished with metallic hardware and uppers featuring bold prints.
WOODEN YOU KNOW IT
SS16 is shaping up to be a good season for brands embracing footwear with wood heels. It might sound functional, but it’s certainly not at the expense of form: companies such as the Swedish clog company Calou, for example, are reinterpreting the traditional bulbous toe clog as a sleeker slingback, boot, T-strap, thong and open-toe slide. Elsewhere, other labels have jumped on the trend too and interpreted it in their own unique way using fashion details such as single monk straps, wide flat bows and flower ornaments to add plenty of visual interest. Eye-catching colours – think bubblegum pink and tangerine orange – are other popular ways of drawing attention.
Big responsibility for your feet. Kids can only have fun in sturdy shoes that can keep up with all of their adventures. That’s why, as one of the most successful manufacturers of children’s shoes, Superfit pays so much attention to perfect workmanship and the highest quality materials. We take quality very seriously. Because after all, we take big responsibility for your feet.
STRAP ALERT
Many footwear brands are channelling the ’70s via heavy-bottom footwear with wide straps. Antelope’s SS16 collection, for example, includes a broad range of sandals on woven platform wedges and printed platform heels. The line’s cloud-like blue and washed pink leather uppers are paired with a kimono-inspired botanical print platform on a white base.
August 2015 |
MODA – R29 UK South & Ireland Marcus Baker M.S.S.F. +44 (0) 7775 995 547 marcus.baker@legero.at
Associate Member 2016
* The result is based on the analysis of 342 returned evaluation forms with the stipulated rating scale: good, average and bad.
Futura & Menswear Magazine 23
TRENDS
My feet’s favourite shoes.
www.legero.at
www.legero.at
LESS PROMINENT PRINTS
With footwear brands focusing more on texture and natural fabrications, prints are taking something of a backseat for SS16, with the exception of prints on a white background. Mono-coloured shoes are, as ever, a key look. White stands out as a particularly popular choice and features in just about every leading footwear collection for the season.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
While prints may be less prevalent than in recent seasons, the look is certainly widely available, nonetheless. Light-coloured prints appear to be most popular and appear on assorted shoes styles from pointed toe T-straps and peep-toes to cap-toe heels and sandals.
ESPADRILLE THRILL
Giving serious competition to the sandal as the quintessential summer footwear, the espadrille is making a major comeback for SS16 in both classic and new shapes. On the casual end, Coolway is introducing a team of sneaker-inspired espadrilles with dyed jute soles to match printed canvas uppers. The lace-ups are offered in a rusty red and beige colourway, as well as indigo blue and soft pastels. Sebago, meanwhile, is also playing with dyed espadrille outsoles. In addition to launching three Liberty print espadrille lace-ups, the heritage brand is offering three buttery-soft suede lace-ups in pale pink, gray and sea foam green, which have matching dyed espadrille soles.
NEW LOOK SANDALS
It wouldn’t be a SS season without the ever-popular sandal, and this year varieties appear to be more stripped down than ever. Birkenstock-inspired footbed sandals continue to be relevant, but more brands are introducing sandals crisscross straps. One of the market leaders, Dr. Scholl’s is applying crisscross slides to flatform heels in its Meringue Collection, which impresses with its design and quality. Nomad focused on flat crisscross slides in its new Mediterranean Collection, with a two tone black and tan sandal being a standout, while Bearpaw added a ethnic print to its crisscross sandals. Elsewhere, thongs sandals continue to prove popular (even if they might not rate highly in the comfort stakes). The emphasis this season, though, is on embellishment. Think fringed detail and metallic adornments.
LEGeRO has what feet love. Lightweight. Extremely comfortable.
SEASON STYLE BAROMETER
MODA – R29 UK South & Ireland Marcus Baker M.S.S.F. • +44 7775 995547 marcus.baker@legero.at
Associate Member 2016
24 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
Leg_Ins_footwear today_IRELAND_104x297_FS16.indd 1
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WHAT’S HOT ✔ Espadrilles Wood heels Dusty pastels Crisscross straps
Mules Lace Flatforms Colour blocking Denim and chambray Gladiator sandals
WHAT’S NOT ✘ Spring boots Basic footbed sandals Black and white combinations Heeled trainers Metallic Neoprene
TRENDS
TRENDS:
SOLID FOOTING: As pants are worn slimmer and shorter, fashion-conscious men are better able to show off their carefully chosen shoes. But with so many options for SS16, what are the key trends?
SUMMER IN THE CITY
Evoking pleasant memories of travel enjoyed, friends made and experiences shared, this warm feeling of favourites and familiarity is expressed through the use of washed-out canvases and soft colours. It’s a simple, back-to-basics approach to summer style that is evoked through classic boat shoes, colourful moccasins and comfortable sandals.
„
Men’s Shoes SS16
Apart from shoes, success is the most wonderful thing in the world. We have been able to combine both for 50 years.
„
35. SEBAGO 40. VALENTINO 41. JOSEPH 42. WJ LONDON 44. ROY ROBSON 47. CAMEL ACTIVE
MODERN DANDY
Reacting to the entrepreneurial spirit and the ubiquity of technology, the Modern Dandy trend reflects how the classic sartorial formalities of the smart shoe are being eroded, re-addressed and personalised to suit the modern age in a range of brogues, wing-tips, lace-ups and moccasins. Formality is an inspiration in all forms, from military to uniform and denim workwear to formal tailoring. Key to the look is a continued respect for the traditions of quality shoemaking, but through a completely modern filter.
SPORTS TECH
Tech-inspired detailing, innovative colourways and clean casual sneakers and sportsstyle shoes are the key components of this sporty look. The trend offers casual shoes with an overall feeling of athleticism. This can be seen in features such as perforated leathers and super-lightweight soles, which have a contemporary finish in contrasting colours. Merging established and trusted shoemaking methods with modern styles perfectly encapsulates this footwear trend, which is expected to have wide appeal amongst a diverse base.
Over 900 Mephisto-Shops and more than 18,000 points of sale in 86 countries, make MEPHISTO one of the leaders in the field. Become part of this unique success-story, for information on opening a Mephisto-Shop please communicate with: MEPHISTO IRELAND Contact : Adare Brands Limited, Tel. +353 86 81 64 003, ks@adarebrands.com • www.mephisto.com August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 25
TRENDS
TRENDS: MENSWEAR DENIM SS16 A wholly eclectic affair, menswear SS16 offers up a mixed bag of looks and styles, not least when it comes to denimwear.
TRENDS OF SUMMER:
While many brands appear content to tread a safe path, others have embraced a more radical approach. Innovation was certainly order of the day at Paris Fashion week, which showcased some fresh looks from the famous – Kenzo and Givenchy - and the (yet) not so famous brands, as well as some nonconventional denim newcomers such as Adidas. The key trends discernible are strong indigo tones, some interesting indigo rainbow wash looks from Kenzo, graphic looks on denim by Givenchy, glazy shiny looks from Philip Lim and some ‘wet looks’ in overalls and bomber jackets from Boris Bidjan.
Contact: Threadweave Ltd., Unit 18 The Exchange, Calmount Business Park, Ballymount, Dublin 24. Tel 01 4569333 E: office@threadweave.com Mobile John Lawlor 086 2591088 Mobile Christian Lawlor 086 8135983. 26 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
TRENDS
Away from the catwalk, it’s a far more conservative approach for SS16 denim. Brands such as Carl Gross, Camel Active, Bugatti, CG – Club of Gents and Digel have all adhered to the triedand-tested formula of predominantly slim-fitting and straight-leg jeans, which are offered in various shades of indigo. After all, if ain’t broke….
August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 27
A WALKABOUT IN ENNIS
Something For Everyone It’s with good reason that Ennis is known as the ‘boutique capital of Ireland’. The charming Co. Clare town is home to a diverse mix of independent menswear, ladieswear and footwear shops. In a retail world where the majority of high streets in the larger European cities show little in the way of variety, it makes for a welcome change. On a recent visit to the town, we ventured to one of the town's most popular ladieswear boutiques, Chez Marie, and discovered just why it's one of the go-to destinations for fashion-conscious women
CHEZ MARIE THE DETAILS: Open 26 years, Chez Marie is owned and managed by Mary Loughnane, a Clare native whose husband is the Clare hurling legend, Ger Loughnane, who led the county to its first All-Ireland win in more than 80 years in 1995 and repeated the feat in 1997. Her knowledge and love of fashion is second to none. FIRST IMPRESSION: Something of a retail Tardus, Chez Marie’s vast size is a real surprise. From the outside, the shop looks reasonably compact but it extends far back, offering a wealth of space to display what is a superb selection of clothing and accessories. Outside, a black frontage with gilt signage makes a smart statement on O’Connell Street, while display windows, on each side of the entrance, are neatly presented, providing passersby with a preview of some of the stock within. A lovely touch is an enclosed courtyard, which leads off the back of the shops and, according
to Loughnane, is a “great attraction for men accompanying their wives shopping as they can have a smoke, relax and read the paper at leisure. As there’s full glazing at the back of the shop, they have a full view inside and can pop back indoors when their opinion is needed.” THE STOCK: Wonderfully varied, Chez Marie is home to an impressive range of ladies’ clothing. A superb range of leading brands from Ireland, Europe, the US and Canada can all be found, including James Lakeland, Ffizio, Lauren Vidal, Arggido, Carla Ruiz, Cartise, Michaela Louise, Coco Doll, HV Polo and Part Two to name but a few. What might sound like an eclectic selection is, in fact, skilfully edited and, crucially, beautifully presented. There’s a wealth of choice for ladies of all ages, which ensures that clients tend to be aged between their early twenties and, according to Loughnane, even their mid-eighties. Commendably, prices are similarly diverse, offering something for just about every budget. In addition to the extensive clothing range, Chez Marie also sells a selection of accessories, including handbags, costume jewellery, wraps,
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belts, scarves and gloves. DÉCOR & DISPLAY: An emphasis on neutral tones sees a beige carpet and cream walls lit by spotlighting. The focus here is on the clothing itself – and it pays dividends. What so much clothing available, display has been designed to show as much as possible without resulting in a cluttered environment. As a result, tried-and-tested hanging rails are the predominant form of display. Their functionality is, however, softened by clever placement of the odd accessory of item of furniture, such as a chaise longue, or pretty accessory. STAFF: Two staff, the epitome of helpful and friendly, were busy at work during our visit. Customers were expertly attended to and assistance was given where requested. Top marks, folks. OVERALL: Another superb shopping experience, Chez Marie ticks all the boxes an independent fashion retailer aims for: an excellent selection, charming staff and an easy-to-navigate layout. It deserves every ounce of its success.
COLLECTION REPORTS SS 16
DRESS TO IMPRESS
PREVIEWS OF THE SS16 COLLECTIONS
Bellfield
LADIESWEAR
BELLFIELD
OVERVIEW: The SS16 range continues in a more feminine direction with the latest styles cleaner and more linear, encapsulating an on-trend, easy-to-wear summer wardrobe.
Double Two
Elli
DOUBLE TWO
ELLI WHOLESALE
OVERVIEW: Elegant and fashionable blouses that cater for every occasion.
PALETTE: Colours are muted with gentle shades of blue, grey and off-whites emerging triumphant.
PALETTE: A varied palette ranges from the dynamic brilliance of white, bluebell and rose to denim blue, red, coffee and a hint of black. The choice of patterns covers a wide swathe, including spots, paisleys and Hawaiian style florals.
FABRICS: A number of materials are used in the collection. Key pieces include embroidered denim dresses, button-through skirts, a dobby denim twin set and fluffy eyelash yarn knitwear pieces.
FABRICS: The ever-popular lightweight textured voiles is present in skirts and trousers, while embroidered textures and plain linens are prominent elsewhere.
FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: Bellfield is known as a casualwear brand, but this season is anything but basic. Whether it’s their long line jacquard coats or three-piece lightweight sweat suits, there’s a wealth of detail throughout.
FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: Key pieces include the introduction of both shirt-dresses and fitted dresses, each in a variety of fabric designs and with a little edge-to-edge jacket in two colourways to complement.
OVERVIEW: Elli opened in Fashion City in September 2014, filling a badly needed gap in the wholesale market for good quality fashionable in-season stock with unparalleled pricing. Focusing on the 27-60 agebracket, the look focuses on a capsule wardrobe of basics layered with chic and comfortable tops. PALETTE: Greys, creams, taupes, black, khaki, soft pink and nude tones are the predominant colour palette, chosen with Irish complexions in mind. Beautiful scarves feature heavily in a matching palette to complete the look. FABRICS: Silk, lace, jersey, cashmere and wool make the collections irresistible, often with a sequin detail or contrasting fabrics to add a textured exciting look. FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: Chic, funky, fashionable, and comfortable, the Elli look is unique and versatile.
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COLLECTION REPORTS SS 16
ICHI
BAILEYS / GIORDANO
High-waisted comfortable jeans in the above palette teemed with a silk top, scarf and necklace allows for a seamless magical transition from day to night.
ICHI
LITTLE MISTRESS
OVERVIEW: Back on the Irish market after a two-year absence, ICHI’s SS16 showcases a host of fashionable, playful pieces featuring hand-drawn prints and feminine, menswear-inspired details.
adorn figure-shaping occasionwear. FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: An impressive shoe range provides a wealth of choice for the footwear fashionista, while a diverse collection of evening and daytime bags impresses with its versatility.
PALETTE: Pretty pastels and summer brights.
MENSWEAR
FABRICS: Light tops in transparent qualities, soft, attention-grabbing fabrics and knitwear.
BAILEYS / GIORDANO
FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: Assorted printed garments, which feature abstract and dotted prints, as well as prints inspired by pastel-coloured terrazzo.
LITTLE MISTRESS (AW15) OVERVIEW: Opulence takes centre stage for AW15, fusing floral accents with timeless silhouettes and classic shapes. The result is feminine yet flirtatious. Elegance, meanwhile, is injected into each style with perfectly married statement heels and day-to-night boots.
PALETTE: Monochrome, vibrant burnt orange, classic creams and royal blues accented with precious metals set the scene for the collection. FABRICS: Intricate embroidery, opulent embellishment, seasonal prints, appliquĂŠ and lace
OVERVIEW: A complete collection of casualwear including knitwear, polos, sweatshirts, tailored jackets, casual jackets and shorts-and a stunning collection of casual and semi formal shirts under the Giordano label. PALETTE: A vibrant range of colour takes in everything from blues and wines to pinks, lemons and greens. FABRICS: Knitwear features plain and structured styles, while polos appear in plains, stripes and with new subtle prints to add to the core product of the Baileys collection. The Giordano shirt collection, meanwhile, features a full selection of plains, stripes, checks and neat prints, all with a variety of collar shapes and fittings. FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: The Giordano shirt collection, which adds a whole new dimension to the Baileys/Giordano offering.
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DOUBLE TWO
DOUBLE TWO
OVERVIEW: The SS16 collection sees a continuation of all the quality and style for which the premier shirt brand is renowned. PALETTE: Strong shades of cobalt, plum and black add punch and depth for formal shirts and sit alongside classic tones of blue, mauve, lemon and pink, while blue, cherry, purple and charcoal is celebrated in the Paradigm collection. FABRICS: Launched last season, the new Slim Fit shirt is available in a wide variety of both plain and designed fabrics, often trimmed and embellished to offer a point of difference to the customer. FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: Plain black is added back into the Paradigm range, which, along with cobalt blue, lifts the range, adding depth.
COLLECTION REPORTS SS 16
6TH SENSE GLOBAL DESIGNS OLYMP
OLYMP
ETERNA
ETERNA
OVERVIEW: Minimalistic prints are key to a collection that, as ever, incorporates a wealth of casual and business designs.
OVERVIEW: A reinterpretation of classic models, featuring ingenious colours and subtle cuts as well as sophisticated fabrics for the new season.
PALETTE: Striking contrasts of different neutral shades with subdued tonalities give rise to a new kind of masculinity.
PALETTE: Soft pastel colours are notable, adding a fresh and vibrant appeal to the collection. FABRICS: A divers selection features cotton, cotton voile, cotton satin, silk and denim. FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: Long tunics with side pockets and sophisticated Mandarin collar details in polka dots designs are spectacular.
6TH SENSE GLOBAL DESIGNS
OVERVIEW: Since its launch in 2006, 6th Sense Global Designs has grown from a men’s shirt collection to a full lifestyle brand that includes everything from shirts and knitwear to jackets, denims and chinos. PALETTE: Summer brights sit alongside traditional masculine colours to create a diverse and appealing palette. FABRICS: Cotton and denim are prominent. HIGHLIGHTS: A large range of Double collar shirts offers superb choice for the modern man, while padded summer jackets and colourtful tees combine form and function.
FABRICS: Prints reign supreme, while small collar shapes continue to define the shirt landscape and appear compact and perfectly formed. FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: In the Bay City collection, modern, sophisticated looks combined with nautical elegance are the order of the day, while the Swimming Pool collection celebrates numerous streetwear influences with relaxed fits and sporty details.
PURE
PURE
OVERVIEW: A comprehensive SS16 that sees the shirt specialist focus on seasonal trends in the best quality. Styles range from very modern body-fit and slim-fit designs to fashion-fit shirts, while collars run the gamut, from button-down and Kent to cut-away.
SEIDENSTICKER
OVERVIEW: The theme of urbanity is seen in some sections of the collections, while circles, squares, rectangles and triangles are present in others.
PALETTE: Highly colourful, the seasonal palette comes alive with bold bright and bursts of vibrant reds, yellows, blues and greens. The collection is offered in monthly colour programmes.
PALETTE: Colour is celebrated throughout, from primary colours such as red and blue to summerinspired tones of coral and ocean green.
FABRICS: Cotton, predominantly 100% and garmentwashed, provides the material mainstay of the collection.
FABRICS: 100 per cent cotton emerges victorious across the vast selection or iron and non-iron shirts.
FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: Prints have been extensively integrated into the collection, including new exclusive digital prints designed and produced in Italy. Alongside the SS16, Pure offers an extensive NOS and seasonal stock service.
FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: This summer, non-iron shirts from the Splendesto range come with a great election of classic patterns and fashionable features. The collection caters for the intelligent man with discreet tones incorporated into the fabrics. August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 31
COLLECTION REPORTS SS 16
SEIDENSTICKER
SKOPES
SKOPES
OVERVIEW: The SS collection includes an impressive occassionwear range, offering stylish options for formal occasions, as well as a newly launched Commuter Suit range. PALETTE: Classic masculine shades are key to the collection. Tonic blue and assorted shades of grey are particularly prominent in suiting. Two-tone fabrics add additional visual interest.
SUNWILL
FABRICS: High quality materials that provide comfort as well as durability. The Palmer suit, for instance, features a unique wool blend sharkskin performance fabric, with two-way stretch, stain- and water-resistant finish. SKOPES STOCK COLLECTION
FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: The Ronson slim-fit blue tuxedo suit, which is available as a 3-piece and features a two-tone fabric with satin edged lapels and pocket jets. This is also available in black and metallic grey.
SKOPES STOCK COLLECTION
OVERVIEW: Impeccable tailoring meets contemporary styling for Skopes’ stock collection, which incorporates a wealth of fashionable formalwear and occassionwear and typically uses slim cuts. PALETTE: Tonic blue and assorted shades of grey are particularly prominent in suiting. FABRICS: Emphasis is on high-quality materials that are designed to endure while providing optimal comfort. FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: Navy dress suits impress with their fit and finish, as well as stylish detailing.
SUNWILL
OVERVIEW: An extensive range from the Danish trouser specialist, Sunwill’s SS16 collection features both regular and modern fits in casual styles, as well as an impressive formal collection in quality stretch fabrics. PALETTE: Spring colours complement the omnipresent blues and navies and are joined by printed and check fabrics to complete the collection. FABRICS: Cottons and high-quality stretch materials are key for casual designs. The formal trousers, meanwhile, appear in various fabrics such as a high-quality wool mix, stretch cotton and polyceramic, which has the appearance of a wool twill but is much lighter FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: A superb finish and attention details proves a winner. Stand-out designs include colourful chinos with a contrasting trim on the pockets.
32 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
WHITE LABEL
WHITE LABEL
OVERVIEW: A young, fashionable brand which has been redesigned to provide particular appeal to the Irish market, White Label’s SS16 collection is a comprehensive offering of suits, shirts, trousers, ties, shoes, jacket and coats. PALETTE: A nod towards the season’s key colours, the palette features assorted shades of blue, encompassing everything from navy to Kennedy blue, as well as taupe and burgundy. FABRICS: Fashionable PV, wool-mix and wool-rich fabrics are the basis for suiting. FASHION HIGHLIGHTS: An enhanced range of suits is the real star of the show. Huge advances in fit, presentation, style and fabrics are all evident in a strong collection of two- and three-piece suits, many of which have a tapered fit.
COLLECTION REPORTS SS 16
BOSSI MODA
GARVALÍN
FOOTWEAR
LEGERO
CAMEL ACTIVE
BOSSI MODA
OVERVIEW: After a wide experience in the footwear sector, ‘Natalia Blanco’ was launched into the market six years ago.Their main goal was to create a product that gathers both design and technique while always using the best raw materials that fit with each style. This Spanish factory aims to produce the most fashionable and on trend styles. These products also are well known for being comfortable and ‘easy to wear’.
MARCO TOZZI GERRY WEBER
Bright, vivid yet commercial summer colours ensure the ladies’ designs stand out, while men’s shoes make use of shades of grey, denim and assorted browns. Sporty nubucks, suede and smooth leathers are used to create various styles, including loafers, clogs, mules and new summer boots.
CAMEL ACTIVE
OVERVIEW: The recurring theme for the season is lightness across materials and colours. Different shades of maritime blue and green are key colours for men, while light, bleached colours take centre stage in the ladies’ range. Printed denim or canvas are often combined with leather, and there is a tendency towards smooth leather. Key styles include white sneakers, lightweight desert boots, and, for women, sandals with anatomical insoles.
GARVALÍN
OVERVIEW: A market leader in children’s shoes, Garvalín’s girls’ range is a tribute to eternal femininity, seen across their inclusion of precious studs, shiny butterflies, bows and floral adornments. Boys’ shoes, meanwhile, see sporty mixes on casual structures, creating easy-to-wear, all-terrain designs. Softened pastels such as nude, aquamarine and mauves, as well as bubble-gum and egg-yolk yellow are key for girls. Dynamic denims, lime, petrol and orange keep the boys’ collection on-trend. Materials, meanwhile, include soft napa, patent leathers and ultra-matte robust leather.
LEGERO
OVERVIEW: Comfortable shoes and sandals for the everyday urban jungle remain timeless and, moreover, embrace a multitude of fashion trends for SS16. Delicate pastels including blue-grey and peach are notable. Other key colours include black and white, soft natural hues and casual metallic shades. Standout designs include the super-flat sneaker model Tino, which is available in derby lace-up designs as well as in a slip-on or low bootie.
JOSEF SEIBEL
GERRY WEBER
OVERVIEW: SS16 introduces an exciting and innovative approach to design, using new themes, styles and materials alongside elegant yet fresh colours. Soft, refined powder shades in new tones such as sisal, linen and cloud stand out alongside grey and taupe.
JOSEF SEIBEL
MARCO TOZZI
OVERVIEW: A number of exciting new developments within the SS16 collection shows that ecological awareness and style are not mutually exclusive.
OVERVIEW: Inspired by international trends, the SS16 collection is particular diverse, spanning everything from young fashion to classic elegance and athletic comfort. In addition to the main ladies’ shoe range, there is a children’s range alongside a contemporary handbag line which is co-ordinated with each collection.
August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 33
COLLECTION REPORTS SS 16
MENBUR
SUPERFIT
MEPHISTO
SUPERFIT PITILLOS MEPHISTO
MENBUR
OVERVIEW: Europe’s leading factory for dress and occassionwear, Menbur – which has been producing shoes and bags for over 40 years – uses the highest quality silks to match occassionwear. Over 80 styles in brand are offered in assorted colours each season.
MEPHISTO
OVERVIEW: The French shoe manufacturer comes up trumps with a collection that is high on fashion without compromising on quality and comfort. Masculine colours pervade the men’s collection, while the ladies’ range features a wealth of metallics such as rosegold and bronze finishes. Suedes and leathers are key while cork-based foot beds and reworked moccasin styles are big news for the season.
PITILLOS
OVERVIEW: Spains largest comfort brand adheres to a hugely successful formula that that sees the creation of comfort and prqctical shoes for the modern woman, combining beauty and fashion along with value for money.
SUPERFIT
ROMIKA
OVERVIEW: The pioneers of comfort continue to put impressive creativity into the highest quality materials and combine them with functionality and comfort in imaginative ways. A varied palette used various sophisticated brown tones and luxurious-looking nude shades, while lambskin, Nubuck, soft nappa, leather and suede all feature prominently. Key styles include the trendy Merci lace-ups and ballerina pumps.
SUPERFIT
OVERVIEW: The multifaceted new collection comprises of three central themes: Street Sport – an early season story; Casual Cool – a spring story; Heat Happy – a high summer story. Vibrancy best describes the colours used throughout, ideal for the summer season. Materials chiefly include canvas and leather, with a wide range of playful ornaments and vibrant colours giving the collection a fun twist. Highlights include Octopuss, a closed-toe, open-heel sandal, and the the ballerina-style Corina.
34 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
ROMIKA
TAMARIS
OVERVIEW: Tamaris takes a walk down memory lane for SS16, interpreting retro-chic in a contemporary manner. Raffia lays the groundwork for the hottest summer trends, and sneakers make a vibrant fashion statement. Wood and a cork appearance enhance the appearance of heels, while espadrilles forge tender ties with plant fibres. Jute and raffia form the basis for the coolest of all soles, while, canvas joins forces with linen and textile uppers. Other important materials include raffia, suede, nubuck and smooth leather.
PEDIPED
OVERVIEW: Sprouting up for SS16 is the launch of Pediped’s floral package across all age groups. Using flower appliques and bold prints, the brand’s design team — which saw the company named as
COLLECTION REPORTS SS 16
TAMARIS
PIXIE
PIXIE PEDIPED
OVERVIEW: Pixie’s boots have been designed to add a dash of relaxed, everyday glamour to the female wardrobe. With 16 different faux fur-lined boot styles
ROBUSTA
Individually designed with the wearer in mind, Pixie is an exciting footwear and accessories brand that combines high-quality production standards and materials to offer women superb design and practicality, enabling the wearer to look and feel special. Fashionable models include 16 types of faux fur-lined boots. PEDIPED
ROBUSTA
ROBUSTA
OVERVIEW: One of the leading manufacturers of Safety, Occupational and Professional footwear 2015 Children’s Brand of the Year — has produced in Spain since 1999, Robusta offers a full range of some blossoming styles for the summer season, safety footwear and is a Gore-Tex® licensee since including leather pre-walkers and the canvas Mary 2001. Its extensive collection features over 300 Janes. Assorted leathers and machine-washable different designs. durable canvas are a mainstay throughout the REVISED.pdf range, whichMorrison utilises aEstates bright and fresh palette.1 19/01/2015 10:42
ROBUSTA
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We have one, two or three units available, each unit is circa 1400 sq ft. / 130 sq. metres.
August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 35
INDUSTRY SERVICES
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36 Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland | August 2015
THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH “The most important thing, in communication is to hear, what isn’t being said.”
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• Complete School Uniform Range • Stock available throughout the year • Peronsalised Service for every customer • Embroidery & Printing Service
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August 2015 | Futura, Menswear & Footwear in Ireland 37