The new Gabor collections A/W 2011
Boots remain a major focus for the specialist in women’s footwear. With its leg width concept – models range from boots with slim to XXL legs – Gabor has more or less cornered the market in quality boots. Furthermore many Vario models can be adjusted to fit individual leg width, e.g. from S through M to L, or from L through XL to XXL. This enables retailers to offer the various models to a wide range of customers and allows wearers to adjust their boots to a particular outfit, e.g. should they wish to wear their trousers tucked in.
In fashion terms the Rosenheim-based company is once again leading the pack: new arrivals include clogs in boot form and a wide range of lace-up boots. The percentage of medium leg heights and ankle boots has been increased yet again. Over-the-knee boots come with flat heels. Ruched legs are still a major trend and the range has been extended still further. Many models feature high-quality fake fur trims, with some boasting whole sections of fur – for added appeal.
As well as boots, the collection includes an even wider range of classic courts and fashion shoes. Wedge heels and court shoes with slim pointed lasts are a top trend.
Ballet pumps are still in demand. Many are available in supersoft sacchetto style, others feature convenient exchangeable footbeds. Loafers cut high at the front are another hot tip.
Casual shoes with shell-effect soles return to the range having been given an entirely new look.
Lasts
Short round lasts dominate for fashion shoes, with courts also featuring slim pointed lasts. Asymmetrical lasts that reflect the foot’s natural shape are an essential feature of the mainstream range.
Heels
In general heels remain an important aspect of the collection. Even sporty shoes are given heeled soles. The current trend is towards higher heels. Most Gabor shoes come in at around 45 – 55 mm, however some models feature 65 mm and even 80 mm. In the comfort sector heel heights vary between 25 and 35 mm. Heels are less glossy, emphasising the casual nature of footwear fashions as a whole this season.
Soles
There is a tendency to emphasise soles. Thick soles with pronounced treads are back. Crepe-effect soles are common. Shoes featuring wedges and platforms remain a central theme.
Trims, cuts and appliqués
Rivets, cones and bars guarantee a trendy appearance. In black they add elegance to any style. Bars and buckles may be decorative, but they also serve a function and promote a good fit. Ruches, pleats and gathers all add interest to shoes. Courts are kept plain.
Materials
Shrunken, soft smooth and nubuck leathers are brushed, oiled, or given a waxed finish for a slightly used look. Many models come in nubuck or suede, with the toes and heels of some scuffed to create the unusual impression of polished leather.
Colours
Apart from black, the top shades this season are smoke/grey/anthracite. Blue appears in the form of dark navy. Green and khaki are used to create trendy highlights. Brown, especially cognac, also features.
Extras
Gabor shoes are available in a range of widths: extending from the standard width F through wide G to extra-wide H.
Comfortable features are abundant and diverse: there are more hovercraft soles, which make for especially soft walking thanks to the integrated air chambers. These are found on boots, court shoes, ballerina pumps and casual loafers. Sacchetto styling ensures utmost softness and flexibility for ballerina pumps. Exchangeable footbeds add comfort to casual street shoes and elegant footwear alike. Shoes manufactured according to the best fit principle, featuring the standard F width yet allowing the forefoot more space, are particularly found in the low shoe range. Cosy linings, genuine sheepskin and Tex are essential elements of the winter footwear range.
Rolling shoes
Gabor is once again offering rolling shoes for the coming 2011 A/W season under the rollingsoft brand name. Curved soles combined with a stabiliser for enhanced lateral stability promotes a natural forward rolling motion, offering spine and joint protection while training the body. The successful rollingsoft range has been extended yet again and now includes sneakers, ballerina pumps and boots in a range of leg heights, some lined with real sheepskin. And for real impact look no further than this season’s innovative jagged soles.
