Matching supply to demand

It is undeniable that in the face of periods of confinement and isolation, as a consequence of the pandemic, society as a whole has notably modified its consumption habits.

Restrictions on mobility and social activities, plus the impact on an economic level, have determined a new order of priorities for consumers. Health, food and clothing lead the demand pyramid due to their importance.

It thus follows that the clothing item, which includes footwear and manufactures, is affected by this new order, with one particularity: there are products with added fashion value. A fundamental factor that in recent decades has given greater dynamics to the planning, production, marketing and consumption of footwear.

The change in living conditions has reduced this value depending on the characteristics of the new demand.

Although fashion and comfort are not opposing concepts, the present and its circumstances imply a greater preference for comfort and functionality, over the strictly aesthetic and visual.

Lightness, flexibility, versatility and durability are some of the current requirements, which demand solid and simple constructions, with a rational use of the decorative and ornamental. High heels and luxury women’s shoes have resigned spaces for low and medium designs, where sports, casual and urban products predominate, with a sustainable aesthetic that privileges functionality.

Thus, the market and consumers challenges designers, businessmen and industrialists to make the most of their creative and productive capacities to put at their disposal the appropriate products that the present moment requires.

The Editor