B.Barnett Expands Shoe Department

A Q&A with the buyers at the local luxury boutique B.Barnett.

What shoe trends are you most excited about at the moment?

As people’s priorities have shifted in the past year, the fashion world has adapted, and functionality and comfort have become just as important as aesthetics. While we strive to help clients build a well-rounded and timeless wardrobe, there are a few styles that we are excited to add to our collection this fall, including ballet flats, square-toe booties, clogs and mules, cool sneakers and anything with a chunky sole, especially loafers.

As the lug-sole trend has been around for a few seasons now, they are carving themselves out as a new classic. They add a bit of edginess to any outfit and are super comfortable. Shearling details are also a cozy trend we’re loving this season.

Why did you decide to expand your shoe selection?

Shoes, like handbags and other accessories, often stand the test of time. When we choose what shoes to bring into the store, we look for styles that enhance a look, but also become forever pieces in your wardrobe. We also wanted to have a variety of shoes that provide practicality without sacrificing style. While many of our styles are designer, we carefully curate everything in our store ensuring they have a strong cost-per-wear. Being able to wear a pair of shoes year after year makes them worthy of the initial investment.

What are the shoe staples any woman can’t live without?

You can never have too many booties. Black, tan, suede, leather — different outfits call for different styles, and it’s a style you’ll wear over and over for years to come.

As even the most high-end designers are now creating with comfort in mind, flats and sneakers are also essential to any wardrobe. Over the past couple of years, sneakers have become a go-to style. From retro to distressed to sleek white, this “trend” isn’t going anywhere, so don’t be afraid to continue expanding your collection.

While always a classic, designers have recently revived ballet flats. They have the ability to make an outfit look effortless. We’re especially loving our styles from The Row, Rodo, Loeffler Randall and Vince.

Who does your shoe department cater to?

Everyone! While we’ve always been known for our luxury items, our collection now covers a variety of price points. Our new Veja sneakers start just above $100 and will definitely be a staple in your wardrobe for years to come. On the higher-end, we now have shoes from Brunello Cucinelli including beautiful suede knee-high boots, flats and sneakers. Whether your style is casual, you’re looking to dress up for a special occasion or somewhere in-between, we’ve curated a collection that checks all the boxes.

What styles are people constantly asking about?

One style doesn’t really stick out more than another because we dress women of all ages for all occasions. However, we are the only retailer in the state that carries the cult-classic sneaker brand Golden Goose. While crisp, white sneakers are a staple in every closet, it doesn’t hurt to add some fun detailing and color to make your entire look pop. Celebrities like Reese Witherspoon and Gwyneth Paltrow have been fans for years.

If you’re still on the fence about getting on the Golden Goose train, here are a few reasons we love this new fashion classic: Every pair is handmade by artisans in Italy making each pair truly unique; they’re crafted in premium quality, feature a padded leather insole and are super comfortable; they go with everything — pair them with jeans, dresses or skirts for a cool, modern look.

Pierre Hardy, the shoe designer at Hermes International, recently said, “The biggest advantage of the sneaker is that it makes the wearer look younger. You can wear the most traditional clothes, such as a fur coat and mix it with sneakers, and you’ll look 10 or 15 years younger. It’s unconscious, but that’s their strength.”

How can people shop your expanded shoe collection?

Come by and see us anytime! Or you can always make a private appointment with one of our stylists, and now you can even shop on our new online store. This fall feels like the return of fashion as events are coming back and we can safely socialize again. We are so excited to be inspired and to dress up. Our entire team is here to help women feel their best from head to toe. From statement occasion-wear to classic wardrobe staples, there is so much to love and wear this season.