than expected considering the present climate and the fact that many retailers had a bad winter, thus being cautious in their buying. I didn't check all the list of visitors but I did see Johnsons Shoes and Jones Bootmakers around the show. "At the moment there is no plan yet to go back to the Kensington
Close Hotel. They are still doing some work there and in the meantime it seems that we, and the visitors, are getting comfortable where we are. We will see what the future brings us." When I attended the Kensington Shoe Event on Monday morning, a
large number of footwear retailers were in evidence and the vast majority were clearly placing orders. The products on show were a good mix with something for every taste and were well received by the retailers that I spoke to, including Maria Leese of Doris and Daisy Shoes, in Wimborne Dorset, who also appreciated the central location and exclusive surroundings of the Westbury Mayfair. Many retailers remarked that the natural light available on the 1st and 2nd floors was beneficial and a big help when buying At last month’s Kensington Shoe Event there were 54 of the
industry’s top brands on display from an exciting cross section of Europe’s best factories and designers. I spoke with UK chief executive Rolf Buhr, who told me about the excellent reception that several of his Peter Kaiser styles have recently enjoyed. These include a smart black suede court shoe with a bow on the front and a modest heel, as worn by the Queen, and an over the knee, high- heeled brown suede boot and a neat black ankle boot, purchased by Pippa Middleton, sister of the Duchess of Cambridge. Both styles were on display at the Event, as was the wellie of choice of Prince Harry and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge - Le Chameau - one of eight fabulous collections shown by footwear agent Rob Sewell of Cocoon Partners. The Autumn/Winter season is especially important for those
factories which specialise in the production of boots. At The Kensington Show Event there were several top-notch boot manufacturers, including Manas, Pons Quintana, Alberto Zago, Paco Herrero, Nero Giardini and Cara London. These factories offer a wide range of styling and prices...but always with a touch of fashion.
What the exhibitors had to say:
“We had a good Kensington show; the Monday and Tuesday were particularly busy for us. Customers are buying into our Urban Chic range with Petra selling in well. We continue to do well with both Driver & Kasia from our biker range and customers are really loving the quality of leathers in our Deva packages. We've had some great reactions so far to SS12 with Moira, our ballerina pump package selling out fast.” Caroline Sheppard, UK Khrio, Aerobics & Pam Agent
“Sachelle Couture were showing beautiful suedes and patents in their dress shoe collection which appealed to all our customers at the Event as they were vibrant and fresh in a relatively dull Autumnal look at the show. Another striking leather used was a wow - Burgundy Pony Hair with handbag to match. “As ever Vanilla Moon was to impress with very well priced wedge boots and shoes in stunning leathers and suede’s. The old faithful riding boots still become the star of the collection. “Olga Berg was showing sleek slim line clutches to highly embellished hand beaded keep sakes. The Olga Berg philosophy as always being to design and create beautiful unique fashionable handbags.” Chris Dagless, Venutti Agencies
“The show was quite slow on Sunday. But, all my appointments arrived OK. Monday was busy all day till about 4.30 . The Cara brand sold very well indeed – as retailers have sold the Winter 2011 collection, and enjoyed a very good sell through. The brand is growing every season. As retailers are looking for a quality product with style and good fitting to sell at a good price. CARA ticks all these boxes.” Martyn Kirby, footwear agent
“The reaction to the Paco Herrero range was also outstanding as this factory is getting its act together by incorporating the wonderfully comfortable "Sacchetto" construction in many of their shoes and boots. This gives instant comfort and flexibility, even where there are platforms!! Their shoe collection incorporates everything from "kitten" heels to 100mm beauties and so solve many niche problems from one reliable supplier. Prices were held from last year to give exceptional value.” Martin Ward, footwear agent
“Things are looking brighter, a little more buzz in the customers. Everything is not coming up roses but things smell a little better. I believe with the lift the Olympics will bring you may find a few more agents smiling again. We have had a few hard seasons. I feel sure those that make it to Spring2013 will begin to eat again. “The Pedro Miralles collection was the best yet with some great flatties, dressy boots and various well priced courts. Weekend will continue with the great success of this season’s sandals with a couple of ankle boots that will work for the same lady as these sandals, after all we are looking for continuity. Amberone is growing steadily as many customers are coming back for this simple good value loafer/ Todd type product.” Paul Dugdale, footwear agent
"My ranges were well received, often hearing comments on the good quality and originality of the products: Pons Quintana with their trade mark platforms and wowen uppers, well combined together reflecting a trendy, sporty look. - Nero Giardini showing their usual good quality mix of trendy and classy product, from boots to sporty trainers at an affordable price. Woolly: Ballerinas pumps from Italy, an attractive and classy product, some of the best on the market." Renato De Angelis, footwear agent
www.thekensingtonshoeevent.com APRIL 2012 • FOOTWEAR TODAY • 29
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