Model 24.146.31
The new 2011 S/S collection launched by the Rosenheim women’s shoes manufacturer features over 400 new models in a range of colours. Market leader Gabor caters to all tastes – from casual to elegant – with its product range. This season, however, the general tone is markedly more sophisticated.
This can already be seen in the degree of focus given to different shoe types. Gabor’s highly successful range of court shoes sees further expansion, heels are a touch higher – 80 mm is no rarity - and platform soles are a top trend. Typically for Gabor shoes even the higher and more elegant models are a pleasure to wear, with styles such as sacchetto making for supersoft in-wear comfort. Nevertheless, even the courts display a certain edge of nonchalance, achieved by a clever combination of materials, last shapes, and heels – not too pointed, not too narrow.
In addition to its range of casual ballet flats Gabor introduces new flat styles featuring conventional soles and at times opulent decoration. Ballet flats with high quality removable insoles are yet another Gabor innovation.
Deck shoes get a makeover with additional comfort features such as aircell soles.
Dress sandals in distinctly wraparound style ensure a better fit; ankle sandals are complemented by the addition of innovative boot sandals in a range of styles. Flamenco models with closed heel caps are a rising trend. Peep toes – whether with heel, wedge or platform – are also back again. New summer boots round off the range.
There is considerable retail demand for conventional everyday and barefoot shoes, college and moccasin styles.
Sneakers – except for the ongoing trend in styles with shell soles – are on the way out. Their place is being taken by new models with rocker bottom soles that offer additional health and well-being benefits. The Gabor models also feature side stabilisers to reduce the risk of ankle-twisting. They are offered under the “rollingsoft” label. New to the range are rollingsoft shoes with antistatic effect.
Colours
As far as colours are concerned, the palette is dominated by earth tones on the one hand and shades of blue from light to dark - such as jeans blue, navy or midnight blue - on the other. Fumo is combined with washed leathers for a more summery effect. Black and grey are still going strong, complemented by white in a range of nuances. Khaki is a hot trend.
Materials
Materials are natural and characterised by a casual sporty look. Matt leather with a natural grain and washed or brushed effects are a top trend. Nubuck and slightly roughened finishes remain popular. Some styles appear in matt reptile or mottled look. Softness is key.
Decorations and appliqués
Rivets, whether round or pyramidal, are a must. Trimmings, including those of leather, are a rising trend. Some ballet flats feature opulent metal and diamante decorations.
Lasts
Overall the impression is one of elegance. Quirky crude shapes disappear completely from the collection. Rounded, chiselled, not to mention asymmetrical toes are key.
Soles / heels
Espadrille soles with a woven or raffia reference are a major trend, as are cork soles. Wedges are found in a range of shoe styles, with a particular focus on sandals and courts. Platforms and wedge platforms are common.
Heels are either extremely high or ultra flat – as in the case of ballet flats and moccasins. In retail terms medium heels remain essential, but are less of a fashion factor. Donut hole heels give boot sandals added appeal.
In general flexible soles are in; Gabor is even offering platform and court shoes with soft soles.
Extras
As well as high quality, velvety smooth uppers and a soft, cushioned inner, functional removable inner soles and shock-absorbing shoe soles ensure unlimited in-wear comfort even when it comes to elegant city footwear. Styles with “hovercraft” aircell soles offer enhanced in-wear pleasure and comfort. One innovation are “two-density” soles, which thanks to a special rubber blend – extremely soft below and firmer above – make for an exceptionally soft and comfortable tread.
The “best-fitting” concept has been developed still further to include new slingback styles.
