If you’re looking to refresh your shoe collection just in time for the new season, look no further than Jean-Paul Fortin.
For more than 50 years, Jean-Paul Fortin has been the go-to destination for high-quality, stylish and affordable shoes. Merchant Paul Fortin opened his first location in Quebec City and named his shoe store after himself and the street on which it was located on (rue St-Jean). After becoming a stunning success in Quebec City, the store expanded to seven locations across the province. In 2017, Jean-Paul Fortin brought its signature brand of continental-cool westwards, opening their first-ever Ontario store in Toronto’s Yorkville Village.
“Our customers are really looking for fashion meets comfort,” says Marc-Olivier Pelletier, head buyer at Jean-Paul Fortin. Sound like your top criteria? We tapped Pelletier for his suggestions on the top six footwear trends to sport this fall.
WOMEN’S MUST-HAVES
Welcome to the Jungle
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! “Leopard print is a big trend on the market right now,” says Pelletier. Though leopard is still by far the most popular zoological print, mock croc has slowly been making gains and can be found on all manner of shoes and bags this season.
Clarks Pure Viola loafer, available at Jean-Paul Fortin.
Wild, Wild West
You don’t need a pair of cowboy boots to go down to the Old Town Road—but they certainly wouldn’t hurt. “There’s a feel that Western styles are coming back,” says Pelletier. If you’re not ready for straight-up cowboy boots, Pelletier suggests a pair of Western-inspired, pointy-toe ankle boots. Giddy up.
Franco Sarto Shay boot, available at Jean-Paul Fortin.
Slouchy Boots
The hottest boot style for the season, according to Pelletier, is a slouchy, knee-high boot. Think the bohemian styles that Kate Moss, Sienna Miller and the Olsen Twins were oft-photographed wearing in the early 2000s. After all, with the nostalgia trend going strong, it was only a matter of time before this decades-old look bounced back.
Bondo Calypso boot, available at Jean-Paul Fortin.
MEN’S MUST-HAVES
Chelsea Cool
As pant hemlines for men have slowly crept up past the ankle, Chelsea boots have stepped up to fill the gap. Chelsea boots may not count as a new trend — just ask John, Paul, Ringo and George — but they’re a timeless staple that belong in every man’s closet.
Aquatalia Leighton boots, available at Jean-Paul Fortin.
Raw Hide
Suede shoes have a reputation for being difficult to clean, but their finicky nature is almost part of the appeal. Pelletier suggests that many people tend to view suede as a “richer” material than plain leather; something about the soft, velvety texture just screams luxury. Not to mention, “colours read so much more nicely in suede,” he says.
Matteo Bertoni Dandy Lace brogues, available at Jean-Paul Fortin.
Wine and Dine
Burgundy, Beaujolais or Bordeaux…there’s no doubt that the hottest colour this season is as smooth and sophisticated as a fine wine. “Oxblood shoes are perfect for the customer who is looking for something a bit different,” says Pelletier. The colour is subtle enough to act as a neutral while adding a season-appropriate pop of colour to any outfit.
Clarks Un Costa Lace sneakers, available at Jean-Paul Fortin.
