For Fall 2009, Yohji Yamamoto teamed up with cobbler powerhouse Salvatore Ferragamo to create a capsule shoe collection.
Yamamoto's goal in partnering with Ferragamo was to create a unisex and neutral shoe.
Their are eight different styles available that range in price from $470-$1050 at select Ferragamo boutiques.
Implications - Products like this combine elegance and sophistication into a stylish whole, and thus appeal to consumers who aspire for luxury without overt gaudiness. Not every wealthy consumer is in the market for a needless display of opulence, and by taking a neutral aesthetic into consideration, products like this succeed at being appropriately tasteful while also representing a dedication to quality and luxury. Sometimes, even with the most luxurious of items, less is more.
Unisex Boat Shoes
Yohji Yamamoto and Ferragamo Team Up for Fall 2009
Trend Themes
1. Gender-neutral Fashion - Creating unisex and neutral clothing and accessories appeals to consumers who desire luxury without overt gaudiness.
2. Capsule Collections - Collaborating with other brands to create limited-edition collections provides a unique and exclusive offering to consumers.
3. Affordable Luxury - Offering high-end products at a range of price points makes luxury more accessible to a wider consumer base.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry can explore the concept of gender-neutral designs to attract consumers who desire sophistication and elegance without conforming to traditional gender roles.
2. Footwear - Collaborations between footwear brands present an opportunity to create limited-edition shoe collections with unique designs and targeted marketing.
3. Luxury Goods - Luxury brands can innovate by offering high-quality, tastefully designed products that cater to the desire for luxury without excessive opulence.