Earlier this week, Footwear News asked readers to vote for the retailer that’s winning the shoe floor war. The definitive answer? Lord & Taylor.
The New York-based department store triumphed against a wide field of competitors from across the globe, including Harrods Shoe Heaven, Selfridges and Saks Fifth Avenue’s 10022-SHOE floor.
In the poll, which ran online from Dec. 15-17, Lord & Taylor commanded 70 percent of the votes, with Nordstrom and Hudson’s Bay taking second and third place, with a respective 8 percent and 5.5 percent of votes.
Lord & Taylor had a lot working in its favor. The company was one of the most recent to make waves with a remodel of the second-floor women’s shoe department in its New York flagship. The space received a bright, crisp new look, featuring mercury glass accents and marble and brass fixtures. Its product selection also expanded to include new fashion labels such as Matt Bernson, Pollini and Carolinna Espinosa, as well as hot athletic looks from Nike and other top brands.
And then there’s the glam factor. The September unveiling of the new shoe department was a who’s who of the footwear biz. Count the big names: Steve Madden, Kenneth Cole, Carmen Marc Valvo, Sam Edelman, Vince and Louise Camuto, Ivanka Trump and Joyce Azria of BCBGeneration all turned out to mingle with customers and show their support for Lord & Taylor.
So does the department store get your support, too? What do you think of the poll results? Weigh in the comments section below.
