An example of winner Giuseppe Zanotti's excellent craftsmanship: The crystal pump. Photo: NeimanMarcus.com
The best in the shoe business for 2009 -- from designers to executives to industry analysts -- were just announced by Footwear News, WWD's 60-year-old sister publication covering the footwear industry, and we've got the winners.
- Designer of the Year: Giuseppe Zanotti
- Company of the Year: Steve Madden Ltd.
- Person of the Year: Tony Hsieh of Zappos.com
- Retailer of the Year: Kohl's
- E-tailer of the Year: Gilt Groupe
- Marketer of the Year: Iconix Brand Group Inc.
- Brand of the Year: Sam Edelman, Sperry Top-Sider
- Launch of the Year: Skechers Shape-Ups, Tabitha Simmons, Florsheim by Duckie Brown
- Vivian Infantino Emerging Talent: Alexandre Birman
"This year's winners proved that the right business strategy and great design can triumph over a bad economy," Michael Atmore, the editorial director of Footwear News, said in a statement. "They have set the standard for the rest of the industry."
The 12 winners will receive their awards in a ceremony on December 1, joining the ranks of designers Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin and Tom Ford, who have won past awards.
Those are some big shoes to fill for 2010 hopefuls!
Do you think these winning designers and companies were the most deserving, or are there other shoe gurus you think were overlooked? Nominate your picks in a comment!
