shoe good
The latest in the TOMS revolution: Ballet-inspired footwear, perfect forpedestrian-friendly festivals
TOMS, the catalyst company of the now-ubiquitous one-for-one business model, continues to innovate, both stylistically and formally. At last year’s SXSW conference, TOMS Founder and Chief Shoe Giver, Blake Mycoskie unveiled during his keynote speech that the next generation of his business strategy, declaring that TOMS would no longer be just a shoe company but rather a ‘one-for-one company,’ dedicated to harnessing the power of consumption to benefit others — across a range of products.
The first post-shoe idea was eyewear. Granted, the concept seemed very similar to Warby Parker’s idea of putting the purchase dollars of a new pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses toward providing a person in need with a new pair, but through a unique partnership with international health organization, the Seva Foundation, TOMS is actually able to provide much more than a free pair of corrective lenses. With every purchase of a pair of TOMS sunglasses, a person in need will receive either eye glasses, or vital eye care services like surgery or health screenings.
Even though TOMS is out to offer a selection of products apart from shoes, the company is also creating new styles and looks within their footwear portfolio — hoping to appeal to a multitude of occasions and tastes. We’ve all seen the classic TOMS slip-on, but did you know that they also make stylish botas (hi-top lace-up) and cordones (keds-like lace-up) for both the ladies and gents — plus a comfortable and classy looking wedge for just the women?
In addition to this diverse collection, TOMS recently rolled out a new style for spring that is likely to be another instant favorite — the ballet flat. The prices range from $74 to $84 and, in usual TOMS fashion, the shoes come in a variety of colors, patterns and materials (suede, linen, burlap). With warmer temperatures on the way and a major pedestrian-friendly festival right around the corner, you might want to pick up a pair (or three).