There was a band-aid concert to launch the adhesive bandage Converse Shoe by Dr. Romanelli at the Supertouch store in L.A. Lupe Fiasco made the launch hot and the shoe was a big hit. As part of RED, the program to fight Malaria, AIDS and TB. I guess the red was the blood covered by the adhesive brand bandages?
Implications - Sneaker culture is slowly creeping up from the underground and into the mainstream, creating a higher demand for quirky, limited-edition sneakers. Staple companies in the running shoe industry and small companies alike can capitalize off of this demand by creating abstract footwear that will attract consumers that see sneakers as a way of life, not just a piece of apparel.
Bandaid Shoes
Dr. Romanelli's Converse Shoe for Charity
Trend Themes
1. Quirky Limited-edition Sneakers - Companies can capitalize off the growing demand for quirky, limited-edition sneakers that are appealing to consumers who see sneakers as a lifestyle.
2. Mainstream Sneaker Culture - The mainstream adoption of sneaker culture presents an opportunity for staple companies in the running shoe industry to tap into this market.
3. Abstract Footwear - Small companies can disrupt the footwear industry by creating abstract footwear designs that appeal to consumers looking for unique and unconventional sneakers.
Industry Implications
1. Running Shoe Industry - Staple companies in the running shoe industry can leverage the growing demand for quirky and limited-edition sneakers to boost their sales and brand appeal.
2. Fashion Industry - The mainstream popularity of sneaker culture presents opportunities for the fashion industry to incorporate unique and abstract footwear designs into their collections.
3. Streetwear Industry - The rise of sneaker culture in the mainstream opens up opportunities for the streetwear industry to collaborate with sneaker brands and create exclusive and hype-driven releases.