28 • Footwear Insight ~ November/December 2017
Dr. Scholl's Idol pairs preppy (cue the fun tassel) with performance and comfort features.
An antimicrobial lining and lightweight rubber outsole make the Rockport Aiden Panel Venetian an easily wearable update of a traditional driving moc.
footwearinsight.com
M O D E R N P R E P
"The great thing about
preppy styling is that it's
incredibly versatile. It's
a timeless look that can
be worn in any occasion,
dressed up or down,"
says Adam Meek, SVP of
product for Sperry. The
brand's three icons – the
AO boat shoe, Cloud CVO
sneaker and Captains
Oxford – all draw from
founder Paul Sperry's
seafaring adventures.
Senior design director for
New Balance Lifestyle,
Brad Lacey, says that
this year "it's less about
trying to create a preppy
look than it is embracing
timeless quality."
Consumers are investing
in product that's built
to last and versatile, yet
still allows for letting
personal style shine. "With
a wave of new, futuristic
styles coming out each
week, the retail landscape
is cluttered and the
consumer is overwhelmed
by choice. People are
ready for a more classic,
authentic look," he notes.
The New Balance 574
