As silly as the question of "in or out" is, it is a perennial favorite to ponder for those of us that follow fashion. It's kind of like the "new black" thing that gets tossed around every time the fashion world transitions from one season to the next. What's funny about all this is, it is not we, the consumer, that has much of any say in this matter. Instead, what's "in" or "out" is essentially dictated by the big fashion houses and the fortunate few independent designers to garner some public attention.
The bargain of the bunch. The ASOS Gladiator Sandal $33.28. photo: asos.com
With that in mind, it appears that Raf Simons, Jil Sander, Dr. Marten, and ASOS would like it if we would agree with them that Summer 2009 is, indeed, the summer of the modern-day gladiator. All four of them are major players in the world of fashion, and generally, what they send stomping down the runway every year has an influence on our choices, whether directly, by us buying their wares, or indirectly, by other manufacturers trying to strike while the iron is hot.
Hot or not, in or out, may be somewhat predetermined by those who conceive of and produce lines of clothing and accessories, but their word isn't entirely the last. You see, in addition to coming up with and implementing ideas, the success of these designers depends an awful lot on the buzz they generate and how often it gets echoed in the press and blogosphere. Even then, even if the designers and the press are in agreement, there is one factor that still remains over which they have little control: if we don't buy it, it barely matters if it's in or out, no matter who says so.
The Raf Simon Show Sandal $786.73!!! photo: illcitizens.com
Comments
My problem with designer sandals are usually the lack of arch support. And you can't use insoles with them!
When did Jil Sander begin designing for International Male?
Sandals are sweet on young lithe men under 25 who are visiting a Greek island. But you can't kick ass in sandals, and when you're a man, sometimes you just got kick some ass.
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