Banana Republic is Stealing Shoe Designs

I know its been ages since I've posted but I had to come out of my semi-closed writing state to comment on what I think is pretty blatant shoe design theft going on over at Banana Republic.

Sure they are knocking off Stuart Weitzman's Nudist sandals like most other mid-tier brands but they are really not being subtle about these items. The top item in each pair is a current/recent Banana Republic shoe and the bottoms is the pretty obvious "inspiration" -

BR Honey vs Aquazzura Wild Things -

 BR Jasmine vs Alexandre Birman Lolita

BR Jackie vs Prada 2008

 

To me this is the worst one - BR Cadi vs Carven's bow slingbacks

 

Knocking off is not cool. You can have a unique shoe at any price point. You won't have any cute shoes if we keep supporting intellectual property theft.

It. Not. Cool.

Trending for Tassels

I love the a shoe with a tassel. From gold Coach loafers to classic Bass Weejuns to edgy Alexander Wang Silver heels - the tassel speaks to me.

I can't get enough of these shoes.

Apparently Paul Andrew can't either.  I love the excess of tassels on his Arta Sandals from this Spring. 

The Aqazzara Forever Marilyn heel incorporates tassels in a more subtle way.  I love the heel placement.  These will draw the eye as you walk away confidently.  I'd love to pair these with a sharp grey suit.

And a shoe that made my "must have for Fall" list early, is the Sophia Webster Layla Pom-pom sandal. I WILL find these in my size.

Sure tassels can seem preppy or parochial, but these new styles are anything but boring and tame.