London Magazine

Thanks to London Magazine for featuring us in 'A Step into Spring' their guide to the bright block colours and trends of Spring/Summer 22. 

We've included the full interview for you here: 

What are the latest trends in footwear?

"I think there is a real shift towards shoes that people know will now be seen." Tracey Neuls.

A fresh perspective has emerged; a focus on bold, artful details (Fontana Bubblegum loafer), bright colours (Cuddy Carrot Mule) and comfort, naturally. Many of us have embraced walking in a new way, so shoes that can segue from day into night with ease and still make a statement are what we want. Freedom, fun and creativity are very much centre-stage, we design shoes to empower, to put a spring in the step, each style brings its own personality. 

What do people want from their footwear this spring? 

Comfort, uniqueness, and a sense of sustainability.

People come to us for unique, sculptural, statement shoes that don’t sacrifice comfort for aesthetics. Good design is something you feel as well as see. Our secret is that we use the softest, most supple Italian Nappa leather and veg-tanning processes to create shoes that slip on like gloves and are good for the planet. Veg tanning is an important process in the treatment and dying of leather as it is environmentally sound. Sustainability is paramount, we use small ethical tanneries and don’t cut corners when it comes to quality, inside or out. Our hand-sculpted heel and toe shapes are unique, making our shoes a big hit with creatives, and those who embrace individuality. 

How has footwear changed post-pandemic?

Comfort is key; lower heels that can be worn all day long are especially sought after. A quick slip-on loafer is ideal - effortlessly chic and perfect for any outfit. 

The idea of putting on uncomfortable shoes after a year of sneakers and slippers is horrifying, so people come to us, knowing that we specialise in wearable shoes that are also statement pieces. We explore fine detail, shape, texture and print in innovative ways in order to create extraordinary, meaningful pieces. Our Magritte Boots were born of a Rene Magritte painting - the Red boots. It is nice to invest in the story behind each design. Equally, our Holzer style riffs off the sharp wit of artist Jenny Holzer with punchy zig-zag edges. Her ‘truisms’ are a particular source of inspiration. 

Any footwear trends from LFW 22?

We're not the ones to follow trends - we would much rather be ahead of the trend and create timeless products. We have a strong ethos of craftsmanship and rebelliousness, with the process based not on trends but a kinetic, personal, emotional response to design. Invest in quality, not quantity. 

SS22 is set to be bright and bold and we love that, being a pioneer of bright colour ourselves with our signature neon orange branding and zingy leather colours. Art, sculpture, and the environment are particular inspirations. The surge in outdoor wear and cycling makes our reflective Geek Sneakers particularly on trend. 

Your most popular style/shoe sold at Tracey Neuls?

Mules are the perfect solution to looking fabulous and walking around all day, but you can slip them off under the desk, sneakily, to have that at-home feeling again. TN believes in one shoe for the whole day and designs around it. 

We have a number of popular styles that return each season in different colours and textured leathers - collectible editions that the customer comes back for again and again. Limited edition printed leathers make quite a statement and our recent Geek Typewriter features a print of London created exclusively on a manual typewriter, by artist Keira Rathbone. The mix of tradition and innovation has proven a great hit.