Grunge Revisited:
As Footwear Plus approaches its 20th year, we’ve been reflecting on the ’90s—and it seems the fashion industry is on the same wavelength. Fall ’10 ready-to-wear and footwear collections reek of teen spirit with plaid, army boots and a lot of attitude.
Edited by Leslie Shiers

Alexandre Herchcovitch + Schubar

The Brazilian clothing designer largely drew from European influences for his fall offering, but between the plaid and severe motorcycle boots, this particular look might give Gen X some serious flashbacks. Heels have no place anywhere near a mosh pit, but tall flat-sole combat boots like this provide fashionable wearability, while buckled wraparound panels lend an armor effect and an air of rugged empowerment.

L.A.M.B. + Zigi

Gwen Stefani may nail glamorous red carpet looks, but given her ska-punk roots it’s no wonder she still can turn out authentic alternative fashion. The recent runway show for her L.A.M.B. brand put a polish on ’90s edginess, from the military-inspired pieces and loose-fitting denim to the heavy black eyeliner. No doubt, this shoe is a perfect match--and between its hiking silhouette, clog bottom and camo-print shearling lining, consumers land a shoe that single-handedly addresses the season’s leading trends.

William Rast + 1999

Perhaps also drawing from his music background, Justin Timberlake & Co. have amped up the grunge factor this season. The designers threw army fatigues, black leather and ethnic influences in the blender, attaining a sartorial savvy both ’hood rats and wannabes will lust after. Lug-sole boots were a natural footwear pairing for the runway presentation, and this version takes the decade’s signature lace-up to a new level of punk with a smattering of don’t-mess-with-me studs.