Basic Fashion Elements

  Basic Fashion Elements

• When it comes to liking how a shoe looks, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. However, "fashion" can be parceled into 5 separate categories, as described by Footwear Guru William A. Rossi. How do the shoes you most like fit into these parts?
  
• Shape. The shape of the shoe is governed by the shape of the last. Other important factors include everything from the heel height to the toe shape to the length of the vamp.
  
• Design. Although the last may be the same, the design of the shoe determines whether it's a sandal or a lace-up. The design element is where the creative talent is most shown.
  
• Materials. This category includes texture, weight, surface grain, and finish.
  
• Color. There are over 17,000 individually listed colors. The reflective tone and use of contrasting colors have effect on the overall color of the shoe.
  
• Ornamentation and Treatment. Ornamentation includes buckls, buttons, straps, bows, and tassels: the "little touches" that add to a shoe's general character.