Just when you thought it was safe to skip the WSA show, along comes an exciting new alternative that is a must-attend. Compass is a sister show to the highly acclaimed Capsule trade show that offers a refreshing alternative to the stale (and emptier) WSA. The show is the brainchild of offbeat marketing group, Brand Pimps/Media Whores.
The show was held in the pool ballroom at the Alexis Park Hotel (birthplace of the Pool Show). They featured a tightly edited juried group of 40 fashion footwear brands. Each was given a small open cubicle, three chairs and a table. This kind of open source approach to a trade show allows the product to truly stand out.
There were several known brands of sneaker manufacturers presenting, all showing their elite fashion collections. Converse, Reebok and New Balance all were in attendance, along with Sperry Topsider and Timberland Boot Company. Highlights of the show included Clae with a collection of top quality, detailed sneakers, Tricked up shoes from Vael Project, iconoclastic J Shoes, retro revival Pro Keds, Funky skate Supra and newcomer, Zuriick. Also showing were Creative Recreation, ALife, Fred Perry, Gola, Keep, Bensimon, Lacoste, Palladium, PF Flyers, Royal Elastics and Tretorn.
Many big sneaker retailers seemed unaware of the shows presence but the buzz built through the week. While many of these brands do not want to be presented in the broader mall channels, SEW feels it is critical for the industry to understand what is happening at the forefront to fashion. The industry needs fresh ideas like Compass to keep us on point as the customer continues to mutate into a full fledged fashionista.
By day two of the WSA show, more retailers were disappearing from the WSA floor to make their way to Compass to sample the experience. Many felt it made the whole trip worthwhile.
Looks like the WSA trip still needs to be on the calendar.
