A$AP Rocky, who took home the Collaboration of the Year award with Puma at the Footwear News Achievement Awards the day before, is a native of Harlem. He and his parter gave back to his hometown in laidback, chic outfits. Rihanna wore a sweatshirt-dress with knit boots while A$AP rocked Puma sneakers with blue jeans and a leather jacket over a sweatshirt. Also at the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem were Dapper Dan, Danielle Guizio, Colm Dillane and Emory Jones.

Jones introduced A$AP Rocky before he accepted his award at the FNAAs on Wednesday. Rocky took home his FNAA on Wednesday eight years after Rihanna won the Shoe of the Year award in 2016 for the Fenty Puma Creeper.

“Honestly, this is just like one of the best accomplishments ever,” he said in his acceptance speech at the awards show held on Dec. 4 at Cipriani South Street. “You know, I was inspired. I saw my lady receive this thing almost a decade ago. Like she inspires me a lot.”

He continued, “But besides that, you know, the thought of me being with Puma and making collaborations is a gift. I mean, I didn’t even think that was really possible. And look at us now, you know what I’m saying? It was always just like, it just felt like it was something missing in the market. And it was me, I was missing.”

Fresh off their appearance at the 38th annual Footwear News Achievement Awards on Dec. 4, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky helped give back to Harlem community at a Dec. 5 event organized by Puma, a brand both artists have partnerships with.

Joined by other Puma ambassadors at the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem amid the holiday season, the couple helped distribute Puma sneakers, apparel, accessories and more items to over 200 members of the club. Whilst engaging with community of her partner’s native Harlem, Rihanna wore a cozy outfit set off by a pair of knit boots from Amina Muaddi.

The multi-hyphenate dressed up in a gray sweatshirt-dress with a mermaid-style skirt. The unique garment included a drawstring hoodie, fully leaning into the aesthetic of elevated comfort. She added another element to her ensemble with a brown fur vest, which introduced a new color and texture to the outfit. Her accessories included thickly-framed yellow-tinted sunglasses and layered gold pendant necklaces, which further amped up her glamour.

Maintaining her cozy vibe, Rihanna appeared to be wearing boots by Amina Muaddi, a designer she’s repped in the past and collaborated with through her Fenty line. The Italian-crafted Veneda Stretch boot features a ribbed knit fabric upper, with the shaft reaching up to the calf; the stretchy material hugs the leg for a sock-like fit. The shoes also feature a rounded toe and a 95 mm sculpted heel. From the luxury brand, the boot retails for $1,355.

Rihanna stepped out in a similar pair of knit sock boots from Bottega Veneta earlier this year, though those were flat shoes. When she’s dressing up in heels, she loves an Amina Muaddi shoe, among other brands. She debuted Muaddi’s new Anok Mule in September and slipped on a black version of what looked like the same silhouette in October to go with a catsuit designed by none other than A$AP Rocky.

Both A$AP Rocky and Rihanna have won Footwear News Achievement Awards for their work with Puma. A$AP Rocky won the Collaboration of the Year award with Puma at the FNAAs the day before they appeared at the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem. Back in 2016, Rihanna won the Shoe of the Year award for the Fenty Puma Creeper.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Have the Best Night at the 2024 Shoe Oscars PHOTOS

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Selena Gomez received the Spotlight Award for “Emilia Perez” at IndieWire Honors 2024 at Citizen News in Los Angeles, wearing a pair of the black pointed-toe “Dune” pumps from YSL. 

The “Only Murders in the Building” starlet showcased a sharp silhouette that showcased a black design, an elongated pointed-toe and a flared, stiletto heel ranging between 3-to-4 inches in height. The shoes also featured a square-cut vamp and an adjustable slingback strap with tortoise buckle.

The shoes also featured a square-cut vamp and an adjustable slingback strap with tortoise buckle. The pumps mirrored a pair of satin red Christian Louboutin shoes she wore to the 2024 Golden Globes ceremony that featured a pointed-toe silhouette, complete with scalloped slingback straps. As for her outfit, Gomez wore the Kristian Silk Cady Evening Dress courtesy of Ralph Lauren Collection, which is characterized by its tuxedo design and suiting details. 

She accessorized her look with a pair of gold earrings and kept her makeup simple, which complimented her bob hairstyle. 

Ahead of the event, IndieWire praised Gomez for her “tireless work as an actress, producer, and entrepreneur,” noting that over the course of her two decades long career, she has “continued to push boundaries and showcase her versatility and innovative approach to both performance and production. Her revelatory performance in Emilia Pérez garnered widespread praise, earning her a place among the year’s most outstanding talents.

The evening was hosted by actor and comedian Simon Rex, with the event marking  an important moment in the industry as IndieWire continues to champion an eclectic array of voices, each pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in film and television. This year’s honorees embody the future of the industry, shining a spotlight on the visionaries, risk-takers, and innovators who continue to shape the entertainment landscape.

Despite the looming threat of new tariffs on footwear imports to the U.S., the atmosphere was upbeat among retailers and brands during footwear market week in New York City.

At FFANY, the turnout was strong, with buyers from Rack Room Shoes, Nordstrom, Target, Walmart, Kohl’s, Zappos, Von Maur and more all attending the show to meet with brands.

“Retailers were coming in from all over the country, whether it was boutique retailers, specialty retailers, department stores or big chains from different categories,” said Sandi Mines, vice president of corporate engagement at Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA) and FFANY. “It was really packed.”

Over at Footwear Show New York Expo (FSNYE) at the Park Lane New York, president Phyllis Rein was upbeat. “The show delivered 70 well-known brands and new inspiring designers, which was an increase of 20 percent this year,” she noted. “The takeaway from the show was ‘shoes aren’t just functional, they’re a powerful tool for self-expression and motivation.'”

Tariff Talk

Overall, Mines described the sentiment across the industry as “cautiously optimistic,” though many companies are mulling how potential new tariffs on foreign imports could impact the footwear industry. Ninety-nine percent of the shoes sold in the United States are imported from primarily China, Vietnam and Indonesia, regions that could be subject to potential tariff changes under President-elect Donald Trump.

The threat of new tariffs on foreign imports could have a major impact on Toms, which does 80 percent of its production in China and 20 percent in Vietnam.

“The tariff talk around China in particular and trading partners at large is top of mind,” said Jared Fix, who joined Toms as chief executive officer in July. “We have world class manufacturing partners who are committed to this brand. So if we need to have an ex-China manufacturing strategy, we can do that.”

Baby shoe brand Robeez, which returned to FFANY in June after several years, manufactures most of its shoes in China. Jennie Leone, the brand’s director of sales, said that tariff changes would likely prompt an increase in retail prices as margins become more slim.

“The buyers I’ve spoken to understand that it’s probably going to be across the board, but unfortunately, the consumer is probably going to end up paying for it at the end of the day,” Leone said about tariffs. “We’re going to do our best to keep our price points where we can. At the end of the day, if you have a good product, that’s what matters.”

Western Chief, the Washington Shoe Company owned outdoor brand, operates all of its manufacturing and production out of China, which makes it vulnerable to potential tariff restrictions in the region. According to creative director Sara Kimball, the brand is actively seeking out potential new partners in Vietnam, the Dominican Republic and Brazil.

“I think we’re really just waiting to see where the tariffs are gonna land before we commit on which country,” Kimball said.

Journee, which has recently expanded from boots and dress into some more casual styles, is also exploring back-up options with several of its factory partners. The brand mainly manufactures in China, but noted that many of its partners have sister factories in different locations.

“I always like sourcing and keeping all my eggs spread out anyway, so I feel like there’ll be some of that,” said Marisa Byrne, brand president of the KNS International-owned Journee. “And it’s a mixture of just being proactive about how we’re comping out.”

Tariffs aside, Byrne noted that Journee is seeing demand for more transitional styles that can be worn on more than one occasion. “Versatility seems to be one of the biggest comments that I’ve heard across all of accounts,” said Byrne. “Where can she get the most value, the most bang for her buck, but also have several instances that she can actually wear that item?”

For brands that manufacture in Europe, tariffs were less of a concern.

“We don’t have the issues that many other contemporary brands do — actually, the bulk of the market,” said Nancy Nicolas, head of sales for Free People Footwear. “Because we don’t produce in China. All of our production is done out of Italy, Spain, Portugal and India.”

Nicolas added that demand from buyers is definitely picking up. “I think in this moment, everybody’s feeling bullish about the future,” said Nicolas said. “I think we’re past that cycle of uncertainty with elections. That’s over and done with.”

Yung Miami, aka Caresha Brownlee, chose a pair of sporty Chanel’s Calfskin CC Sneakers while attending the We The Best Foundation x Jordan Golf Classic Celebrity Golf Tournament at Miami Beach Golf Club on Thursday night in Miami.

The luxury shoes, which have become a staple amongst celebrities, are defined by their calfskin leather material and rubber outsole. And while many different iterations of Chanel shoes are available in terms of design and colorways, Yung Miami chose a burgundy, white and white pair that had bits of each color scattered amongst the silhouette and white laces. Continuing the themes of her sporty look, she wore a matching burgundy miniskirt and tank top, which itself was brought to life through her elaborated beaded necklace.

Once considered something of an anomaly, Luxury sneakers are now quite popular amongst celebrities and influencers. Last year in Los Angeles, Kim Kardashian was photographed heading to her daughter North West’s basketball game alongside NBA star Tristan Thompson in a pair of black athletic sneakers that featured a classic gum outsole, breathable mesh, and flexible arches with a chunky silhouette and an all-around monochromatic black finish.

And earlier this fall, Balenciaga, whom she is partnered with, released their Balenciaga Reptile Sneaker, which is characterized as having “exaggerated proportions and layering.” The Balenciaga Reptile Sneaker is made completely free of leather instead of using polyurethane, and the result is a mash-up effect in which each of the upper’s pieces look like they’ve been wrenched from different sneakers and cobbled back together.

Despite its unique design, the shoe is expected to be a defining style statement as we head into next year and has already managed to go viral following its March debut.

Gigi Hadid curated her very own collection for Miu Miu‘s Select initiative. The collection was unveiled yesterday at Miu Miu’s Design Miami District.

The model attended the event in Miu Miu from head to toe. On her feet, Hadid sported the brand’s Buckle Trio slingback kitten heels in a rich dark green almost brown hue. Paired with sheer black tights, the Miu Miu creation featured glossy patent leather uppers accompanied by sharp pointed toes multi-way straps and buckle-fastened slingback straps.

Branded insoles gave way to short and sassy 2.1-inch stiletto heels, a perfectly comfortable height for a kitten style. Hadid’s footwear pick can be purchased via Farfetch and retails for $1,480.If the deep green hue isn’t your thing, Miu Miu’s Buckle Trio silhouette also comes in red, black, cream, white and even a high-shine metallic silver. The options are endless. The shoe also comes in varying heel heights for those looking for something more dramatic.

On the outfit front, the runway regular opted for a black pinstriped blazer, layered over a white ribbed top. On the bottom, Hadid wore a leather mini-skirt featuring the Italian brand’s logo embossed into the fabric and pastel pink satin trim.

The latest edition of Miu Miu Select, curated by Gigi Hadid, was hosted yesterday at
Miu Miu’s Design Miami District with a performance by DJ Chloé Caillet. Notable attendees included
Camila Cabello, Dwyane Wade, Gabrielle Union, Paloma Elsesser, Patrick Ta and Samira Ahmed. To enhance the exclusivity of the pieces, hand-sewn tags signed by Gigi Hadid were
added to purchases during the event.

Celebrating Miu Miu’s signature strength of character and distinctive sense of style, Miu Miu Select
invites the brand’s friends to curate a highly personalized collection—or wardrobe—of their favorite
ready-to-wear, bag, shoe, jewelry, and eyewear pieces from the new season. These selections are available to purchase for a limited time only.

Gigi Hadid’s Best Shoe Moments in 2024 So Far [PHOTOS]

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Lily-Rose Depp was spotted heading to Global Radio Studios today in London to promote her new film “Nosferatu.” Directed by Robert Eggers, the 2024 feature was adapted from the 1922 horror/fantasy film “Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror.”

The fashion darling took to the streets of London in a pair of whimsical plaid kitten heels. The style featured black and white plaid uppers crafted out of a frayed cloth accompanied by sharp pointed toes and what looked to be blue and white leather floral adornments fixed to the tongues, offering the silhouette a colorful touch.

Short diamond-shaped 0.5 to 1-inch stiletto heels finished off the set, creating a subtle walkable lift. The footwear style is dynamic, featuring contrasting colors and unctuous textures galore, immediately drawing the eye.

While Depp’s pick seems to be one of a kind, those looking to channel her London press run look can browse comparable options from brands like Rene Caovilla, Amina Muaddi, Sam Edelman, Charles & Keith, Sergio Rossi and Jimmy Choo, just to name a few. While the styles are not exact, their decorated offerings should give a similar effect.

On the outfit front, the “A Faithful Man” star donned a pastel yellow, almost green sweater vest accompanied by a coordinating knitted mini skirt. Depp wore dainty gold jewelry to round out her look.

When not in elevated styles, you’ll usually find Depp in laidback sneakers for her casual outings. The thespian also can be spotted in the likes of Maison Margiela, Acne Studios, New Balance and, of course, Chanel as some of her other favorite footwear designers.

Beyond her impeccable taste in footwear, Depp has dipped her toes into the modeling world, walking for the likes of Chanel ala Karl Lagerfeld who saw her as a muse. She has a long-standing history with the storied fashion house spanning all they way back to 2015 when she was named as an ambassador at the age of 16.

Lily-Rose Depp’s Red Carpet Style Evolution, From the 2010s to Today

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Tiffany Haddish attended a Nordstrom Flagship Holiday event held yesterday in New York.

Celebrating the season, the “Girls Trip” star sported a pair of Christian Louboutin knee-high boots. The fall-ready booties featured black leather uppers in a slouchy style accompanied by arched soles and knife-like pointed toes.

3 to 4-inch stiletto heels and the brand’s iconic blood-red bottoms finished out the set. The shoe pick was instantly recognizable thanks to the red soles. No matter the composition, boots are a perfect choice for the colder months, given the silhouette encapsulates the wearer’s feet, insulating them and protecting them from the elements. The slouchy uppers created a unique textural finish, making the otherwise dressy shoe appear slightly relaxed.

For those looking to replicate Haddish’s slouchy pick, brands like Michael Kors, Chloe, Schutz, Proenza Schouler, Bottega Veneta and Amina Muaddi all feature comparable styles in a range of sizes and price points. The shoe is very similar to Christian Louboutin’s Armurabotta 100 silhouette.

In a coordinating monochrome move, the “Nobody’s Fool” actress wore a boxy black wool coat via Kate Spade with shiny decorative buttons. Layered underneath, Haddish wore what appeared to be a black turtleneck dress. As for accessories, the comedian toted a black leather mini bag fixed with a silver chain with silver pendants. A plethora of high-shine gold jewelry finished out her look.

Haddish’s clothing aesthetic aligns with her eccentric and eclectic taste. For red-carpet events, she’s all about fashion statements. She frequents in gowns from Christian Siriano, Azeeza Official and Prabal Gurung.

As for footwear, the “Night School” star tends to gravitate towards heeled sandals, sharp pumps and a variety of boots. On more casual occasions, Haddish can be seen sporting a range of sneakers in both high and low-top styles featuring graphic detailing akin to her clothing choices.

Inside Nordstrom NYC Holiday Takeover: Tiffany Haddish, Busy Philipps + More

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Sam McCracken, a 28-year Nike veteran who founded the brand’s Native American community-focused N7 business, has announced his plans to retire in 2025.

McCracken announced his retirement plans on LinkedIn, where he called his tenure with Nike “an incredible ride.”

“To all of you who have trusted me to do the work that I was called to do, thank you. To those who have embraced and pushed me on how we could support our community even more, thank you. To the Athletes and Ambassadors who have shared in this mission and have helped it grow, thank you,” McCracken wrote.

Nike confirmed with FN that McCracken will retire from the company in 2025 after he onboards the next N7 leader.

McCracken, who currently holds the general manager of N7 title, started his career with Nike in 1997 at its Wilsonville, Ore., distribution center. Just three years later, McCracken became the manager of its Native American business.

Since then, McCracken has led the development of more than 25 N7 product collections and brand stories.

Aside from product, McCracken has also been a driving force for the N7 Fund, which was established in 2009 and focuses on creating access to sport for Native American and Indigenous youth in the United States and Canada.

Nike also stated McCracken’s leadership with its Native American Network & Friends has helped drive ongoing education, visibility and representation for its Indigenous community, which includes a recruitment and retention strategy.

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.

Jennifer Lopez accepted the Maverick Award at the 2024 IndieWire Honors wearing Dolce & Gabbana platform heels with a shimmering dress.

Lopez looked festive in a form-fitting gown made of a semi-sheer silvery mesh material that brought a sparkle to the venue in Los Angeles. The dress featured a mock neck, long sleeves and a skirt that fell near her feet. Gold earrings accented her look while her hair was worn out and dark glittering eye shadow made a statement.

The dress was paired with Dolce & Gabbana heels crafted with mirror-effect gold leather. The shoes were lifted by a substantial platform and towering block heel with intricate detailing lining the edges of both, contributing a unique characteristic to the pair. A variation of the Keira style, the upper features a thin strap across the toes and a thinner one wrapping around the ankle, which connected to the fabric enclosing around the ankle. In a branding moment, the ankle strap is adorned with an interlocked DG charm in gold.

Per IndieWire, Lopez was bestowed with the honor “for her groundbreaking career across music, film, and producing.” Lately, she has been promoting her latest venture “Unstoppable,” a drama/sports film in which she stars alongside Jharrel Jerome. For appearances related to the film in recent times, she’s worn a range of shoes including statement-making boots and stylish pumps.

In her acceptance speech, Lopez said she looked up the definition of “maverick” in preparation for the night: “It means an individualist, a nonconformist, a free spirit, an original, a trendsetter, an eccentric, an outsider, a rebel, a dissident, a disrupter. I could go on, but I’m not going to. But seriously, what a beautiful thing to recognized for. For charting your own course. I’m appreciative of being seen in that way and recognized for who I am and, kind of, who I’ve had to be. I think every artist and every one in this room has had to figure out to how to do it their own way, blaze their own trail.”

She offered a special thank you to Judy and Anthony Robles, the real-life inspiration behind “Unstoppable,” which follows a young man with one leg becoming a champion wrestler.

Jennifer Lopez’s Street Style Shoes

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