Story by Mario Abad / Photography by Kyle Berger
GOOGLE and PAPER came together to highlight the SMALL BUSINESSES that are LEADING the BIGGEST TRENDS of the summer based on Google’s trending search data.
There has been a shift in the world of footwear as of late. Where high-heeled shoes for men was once a niche concept — and extremely difficult to shop with ease — there is now a style to fit every lifestyle. Changing norms about established gendered dressing means that more people are experimenting and taking risks with their fashion choices. Add to that a sprinkling of pop stars and actors who have wholeheartedly embraced the trend and suddenly, thanks to buzzy brands, the sky is now the limit when it comes to men’s and unisex heels to choose from. Here’s a guide to get you on your way to new heights.
ERNEST W BAKER
Ernest W. Baker, the a menswear label founded by Reid Baker and Ines Amorim, is known for reinterpreting menswear classics (the namesake is the muse and grandfather of Baker). The LVMH Prize finalists are known for their contemporary spin on retro ready-to-wear and translate that energy into their footwear range, too; their T-bar loafer, for instance, offers a fresh take on a preppy classic.
GMBH
GmbH founders Serhat Isik and Benjamin Alexander Huseby’s take on heels includes a mid-length block shape etched with silver metal hardware and tonal stitching on styles such as the denim Ergonomic Riding ankle boot, which features a zip fastening that wraps around the entire front. For the Berlin-based fashion brand, it’s those small, elevated details that make all the difference.
SWEAR
The black “Element” sneaker from London-based made-to-order brand Swear is about as chunky as a shoe can get thanks to its exaggerated sole that the brand brought back from its archive. The combination of neoprene, rubber and leather lend a darker sensibility that anchors the style in the ’90s industrial scene for a bit of unexpected retro nostalgia.
HATHENBRUCK
Caleb Flowers, who launched Utah-based streetwear concept store Hathenbruck in 2016, needed an easy slip-on waterproof shoe that was also durable enough for outdoor activities such as kicking over a stump or pedaling a bicycle. So he created the “Chillbies,” a smooth PVC shoe that features a round toe cap and treaded sole with an upper that sticks out all the way up for an edgy look.
SUNNI SUNNI
The conceptual and artful footwear brand founded by self-taught designer Sunni Dixon in 2019 is rooted in Black culture and makes ethically produced shoes that have low impact on the environment. Among its popular styles are the “Reese” — a snakeskin-embossed boot — and the “Lonel” square-toed slip-on mules. Both unisex styles feature stacked block heels, the go-to masc silhouette for heel-inclined guys.
EYTYS
This Stockholm-based minimalist label may be known for its cool chunky sneakers, but it’s since expanded footwear silhouettes to include its now-signature angular and tilted heels on tall boots like the ‘90s-inspired “Nova” — with its black shiny leather and airflow vents — and sleek open-toed mules like the “Naomi,” a purple patent leather heel with architectural angles.
ROMBAUT
The vegan accessory brand’s “Bocaccio” boot has become one of the it-styles of the season by encapsulating two trends at once: the high top sneaker and the thick, chunky sole. Its six-centimeter heel is just high enough to lend a cool factor to the sporty shoe, which comes in a variety of different colors. All materials are plant-based, including stone, tree bark, natural rubber and coconut fiber.
R13
The giant platform of the “Kurt” can be seen as a gateway shoe to what some may consider to be more extreme styles of a pronounced high heel. Its grunge connotation keeps the look playful and approachable, while the canvas high-top silhouette and orange/ checkerboard colorway keeps it grounded. Other details include distressed edges and the brand’s signature R13 logo on one side.
both
both’s “Geo Derby” shoe might be the best of both worlds: a practical shoe — its slightly raised rubber sole has a military, ready-for-anything vibe — with a little something extra. It maintains its sleek look thanks to its polished black leather, buffed lining and trim welt.
VP Production, Talent: Katie Karole / Digital Director, Talent: Justin Moran / Art, Fashion Director: Malcolm Mammone / Executive Creative Director: Jordan Bradfield / Managing Editor (SBLBT): Laia Garcia-Furtado / Managing Editor (PAPER): Eliza Weinreb / Photographer: Kyle Berger / Market Editor: Emma Sayer, Abby Bencie / Partnerships: Caitlin Sharp, Bonnie Monk / Web Design: Composite
