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Stylist’s best advice for footwear going into 2026.
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Our mantra:
1. Know Your Customer: Be specific about who you’re designing for.
2. Find Your “Why”: Define your brand’s unique story and point of view.
3. Set Your Price: Decide your price tier (budget, premium, luxury) early.
4. Spot the Gap: See what’s missing in the market that you can fill.
5. Create a Hero: Design one standout style that defines your brand.
6. Build the Core: Develop versatile, everyday styles that will be your bestsellers.
7. Keep it Cohesive: Ensure all your styles look like they belong to the same family.
8. Master Your Materials: Choose your key leathers, soles, and fabrics.
9. Plan Your SKUs: Be smart about how many styles and colorways you create.
10. Crunch the Numbers: Know the exact cost of every shoe to protect your profit.
11. Find the Right Factory: Your manufacturing partner is key to quality and timing.
12. Map the Timeline: Create a master schedule and stick to it.
13. Prep Your Assets: Get amazing photos and sales sheets ready before you launch.
14. Choose Your Sales Path: Decide how you’ll sell (online, wholesale, or both).
15. Check the Sample: Never mass-produce without approving the final pre-production sample!
With over 45 years of industry expertise, we specialize in guiding footwear from concept to retail with precision and passion. As a footwear style creators, we understand the nuances of customer preferences, trend evolution, and material selection—ensuring each design resonates with both style and substance. At ACLA, our lab in downtown Los Angeles, nestled in the heart of the Fashion District, serves as a hub for high-quality, export-grade production. From sampling to final-stage development, I prioritize value-driven design, selecting the right materials to meet strategic price points while maintaining retail appeal.
Supported by satellite manufacturing partners, our process is agile, trend-aware, and deeply committed to delivering excellence in women’s footwear and accessories.
