By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
Designer Brands has launched a new footwear line for the NYC streetwear brand Le TIGRE.
Designer Brands, Infinity Brands and Hilco Global hold equal ownership interests in the Le TIGRE brand.
Designer Brands will exclusively design and produce Le TIGRE footwear for distribution through DSW and The Shoe Company’s direct-to-consumer stores and websites, in addition to select wholesale accounts and the official Le Tigre ecommerce website.
“The process of envisioning, defining, and bringing the essence of Le TIGRE to life in footwear has been an exciting journey,” said Designer Brands president, Bill Jordan. “As brand builders, we are focused on creating style and value for our customers powered by our passion for inspiring self-expression. Launching the new Le TIGRE footwear collection strengthens our owned brands portfolio and aligns with our goal of doubling sales of owned brands by 2026,” Jordan added. “This is an opportunity to truly disrupt the footwear marketplace, delivering great design and creating something truly special.”
The Le TIGRE footwear line includes six new athletic and athleisure shoe designs inspired by aspects of New York City such as Tompkins Square, Bishop Loughlin High School, and more.
“This is a monumental occasion for Le TIGRE as we embark on a footwear journey with industry leader, Designer Brands,” said Le Tigre CEO, Ike Franco. “Le TIGRE has long represented an image of style disruption and uniqueness. This new footwear line embodies that sentiment.”
Designer Brands is a design, production and retail company that focuses on branded footwear and accessories. Its portfolio includes brands such as Keds, Lucky Brand, Crown Vintage, Vince Camuto, Topo Athletic, Jessica Simpson, and Le TIGRE.
footwear and accessories for all of life’s occasions
The company’s products are released through its extensive direct-to-consumer omni-channel wholesale distribution network.