EXCLUSIVE: Aerosoles to Preview Archive-inspired ‘Essentials' Collection to Buyers at Next Week's FFANY
Just eight months after joining Aerosoles as its new president and chief brand officer, industry veteran Jimmy Gabriel is ready for the market to see what he's been up to since coming on-board.
Debuting at next week's FFANY market week in New York, the American Exchange Group-owned footwear company will unveil the Aerosoles Essentials Collection, which builds on the brand's most iconic, archival shoes.
More from WWD
Dockers Footwear Marks Next Chapter With New Innovations, More Classifications
FFANY President Sandi Mines Reflects on Women's Progress in the Footwear Industry: Women in Power
American Exchange Group Acquires Giant Propeller Marketing Agency to Support Growing Brand Roster
According to Gabriel, the debut collection will be over 100 styles — everything from dress heels, wedges, mid platforms, block heels, and flats with a range of closed-toe, sandals, and sneakers. Expect to also see a variation of materials used including stretch, woven and knits, as well as iconic ornaments that are synonymous with the Aerosoles label including buckles and hardware.
Priced from $29 to $89, the collection incorporates Aerosoles' signature comfort technologies including the Diamond Flex Sole, Stitch N' Turn construction, and diamond-embossed pillow-soft insoles. The collection is slated to be available to consumers by the fourth quarter this year.
'The archives for Aerosoles are pretty incredible,' Gabriel told FN in an exclusive interview ahead of FFANY. 'We started by diving into nearly four decades of iconic samples, catalogs, and feedback from both retailers and consumer. That history helped us identify the brand's most beloved and successful styles.'
The executive noted that the idea was to bring that consumer along the journey to what Aerosoles used to be while also regaining the faith from that customer by updating its icons.
'There's going to be a number of shoes that people are going to see in the collection and say, 'Oh my god, I remember that look.' That's what I'm excited for everyone to see,' Gabriel added.
As for what else has changed at the brand, the executive noted that following its 2022 acquisition by American Exchange Group, Aerosoles has entered a new era of growth.
'Before the acquisition, Aerosoles was more of an item-driven business,' Gabriel said. 'Now the brand is a complete line and the consumer is reacting. We have tripled the business since the acquisition — a lot of which came from building our online presence.'
Gabriel also noted that the customer range has widened in the past few years. Indeed, Aerosoles is now seeking out women aged 25 to 65, according to the exec.
'We now have three generations of consumers who know the brand,' he said. 'I want to make sure that we include all of them in Aerosoles going forward.'
Best of WWD
All the Retailers That Nike Left and Then Went Back
Mikey Madison's Elegant Red Carpet Shoe Style [PHOTOS]
Julia Fox's Sleekest and Boldest Shoe Looks Over the Years [Photos]
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
The 3 Best Ways for Boomers To Use Personal Loans To Stretch Their Retirement
Personal loans can serve many functions, from starting a business to buying a new car — even helping in retirement. While it's always important to exhaust other options first that don't require paying interest, there are some situations where a personal loan can make a difference for boomers in retirement. Financial experts offer the best ways for boomers (or any retiree) to use a personal loan to help fund some aspect of their retirement. Find Out: Read Next: One instance when a personal loan can make sense is to bridge a short-term cash need — like delaying Social Security to maximize benefits or covering a one-time emergency without disrupting long-term investments, according to Christopher Stroup, a CFP and owner of Silicon Beach Financial. The key is using it strategically, not as a recurring income source, he said. See More: If you've got debt that's earning very high interest, such as credit cards or high-interest medical debt, a personal loan can offer you 'breathing room,' Stroup said, 'especially when the new loan has a lower fixed rate and shorter term.' It can also simplify payments and reduce interest. However, Stroup said, 'Know that it only works if spending habits also change; otherwise, debt can pile up again.' While personal loans should not be a go-to for most expenses, Stroup said that when the expense is unavoidable and aligns with a broader financial plan, it can be a good idea. 'For example, a medically necessary home renovation or dental procedure may justify a personal loan, especially if it avoids tapping tax-deferred retirement accounts in a high-income year.' Robert Gabriel a financial specialist and creator of Vosita, said these can include things renovations that improve safety or accessibility (like installing grab bars or a stairlift) and allow a retiree to age in place comfortably. 'Similarly, for unexpected but necessary medical expenses that aren't fully covered by insurance, a personal loan could provide a way to manage the cost over time,' Gabriel said. However, in both these scenarios, the retiree needs to be confident in their ability to repay the loan without jeopardizing their essential living expenses. Credit score also plays a huge role in determining personal loan interest rates, regardless of age, Gabriel said. He said that retirees with excellent credit scores (typically 720 and above) will qualify for the most favorable interest rates, which are currently averaging around 13% to 14% according to recent reports. A good credit score (690-719) will still yield reasonable rates, but they'll likely be a bit higher. 'To improve their odds, retirees should ensure they have a good payment history on all their debts, keep their credit utilization low (the amount of credit they're using compared to their credit limit) and avoid opening new credit accounts unnecessarily,' he said. Even small improvements in credit score can lead to significant savings on interest payments. Using loans to cover everyday expenses is a red flag, however, Stroup warned. It often signals that a retiree's spending is outpacing their income plan. 'Over time, this can create a cycle of borrowing that drains savings, increases financial stress and limits future flexibility,' Stroup said. If you're finding yourself turning to loans for repeated borrowing to cover basic expenses, minimum-only payments or juggling multiple loans without a payoff plan, you could have a problem. 'These patterns can signal deeper cash-flow issues and should prompt a review with a financial planner before debt becomes unmanageable,' Stroup advised. More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard 7 Things You'll Be Happy You Downsized in Retirement 5 Cities You Need To Consider If You're Retiring in 2025 This article originally appeared on The 3 Best Ways for Boomers To Use Personal Loans To Stretch Their Retirement Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Addressing the Trades Gap: Got Electric's Apprenticeship Program Builds the Future Workforce
IJAMSVILLE, Md., June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Got Electric, a regional leader in solar and electrical contracting services, is investing in the next generation of skilled trade professionals through a robust apprenticeship program that combines real-world training with college-accredited learning. Offering hands-on experience in solar energy installation and electrical work, the program equips young people with the skills and certifications they need to succeed in the fast-evolving renewable energy industry. Operating in both Maryland and Virginia, Got Electric's apprenticeship program reflects the company's broader commitment to workforce development and community resilience. Whether supporting collaborative initiatives in Southwest Virginia or mentoring apprentices in the field across Maryland, the company is helping meet rising demand for skilled electricians amid a growing labor shortage. According to the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, Maryland currently ranks third in the nation for worker shortages, with only 33 available workers for every 100 open jobs—a gap that is particularly acute in skilled trades. In parallel, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a national 11% growth in demand for electricians between 2023 and 2033, outpacing most other occupations. "The future of energy is here, and it's being built by local talent," said Grant Gotlinger, President of Got Electric. "By partnering in programs that offer real pathways into the trades, we're not just filling workforce needs—we're transforming lives and strengthening local economies." The apprenticeship model enables participants to earn while they learn, gaining paid work experience under licensed, IEC-trained electricians. In Virginia, many apprentices also earn college credit through partnerships with institutions like Mountain Empire Community College. In Maryland, where Got Electric's apprenticeship presence continues to grow, on-the-job learning is already transforming lives through mentorship and hands-on field experience. "Working with apprentices like Gabriel reminds me how rewarding this career can be," said Marco Encinas, a journeyperson electrician based out of Got Electric's Maryland office. "The electrical trade is more than hands-on work— it's a profession that's always in demand and full of opportunity for those willing to learn." As solar and renewable energy installations continue to grow, Got Electric is helping meet the demand for qualified professionals by building talent from within. Apprentices develop core skills in diagnostics, wiring, safety, and smart energy systems. Most program graduates move into full-time roles with Got Electric or similar firms across the region. "Being part of Got Electric's apprenticeship program has opened doors I didn't think possible," said Gabriel Soptchigoum, a current Maryland-based apprentice at Got Electric. "I'm learning from the best and building skills that will carry me through my career." Got Electric's support of apprenticeship training reflects a broader trend of integrating renewable energy programs into local economies, especially in areas transitioning away from traditional energy sources. With a growing focus on community improvement, skill-building, and economic diversification, the company is helping create a resilient, highly trained workforce ready to meet the energy needs of tomorrow. About Got Electric LLC Got Electric is a licensed and insured electrical contractor serving Maryland and Virginia. Known for its excellence in residential, commercial, and O&M solar services, Got Electric specializes in custom wiring, energy-efficient systems, and backup power solutions. With a focus on safety, transparency, and quality workmanship, Got Electric is proud to support the skilled trades through education, mentorship, and community-based training programs. For more information about Got Electric, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Got Electric, LLC Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Politico
5 days ago
- Politico
Washington reality check hits Sacramento
Presented by KEEPING SCORE: California Democrats are working to hammer out their moving target of a budget while keeping their eye on the storm clouds from Washington. As we reported this morning, Democrats are weighing potential revenue options to offset the state's $12 billion spending gap and are keenly aware that deep cuts in federal health care spending being negotiated in Congress would upend their plans. That tension became clear today as the Congressional Budget Office estimated the House budget plan would increase the federal deficit by $2.4 trillion within a decade — even after booting 7.8 million people off Medicaid nationwide. 'They can't throw enough people off health care to pay for this tax cut,' Senate Budget Chair Scott Wiener told Playbook. If Assembly Budget Chair Jesse Gabriel's caffeine stack of coffee and Coke Zero is any indication, weary state lawmakers still face a fiscal climb as they oscillate between spending negotiations and hitting the Friday deadline to move their bills from one house to the other. 'The more we learn about the details of this awful bill the more concerned we become,' Gabriel said in a statement to Playbook. 'It is an absolute horror show that would have disastrous consequences for our state.' While lawmakers are busy circulating vote cards and feverishly pushing their colleagues to vote for their bills, budget drama is unfolding in the background. Gabriel has spent much of the marathon floor sessions off the green carpet in meetings with budget leaders in both houses that at least once stretched into the evening, necessitating an emergency pizza delivery. California was struggling to afford its health care programs even before the threat of federal cuts intensified. Last month, Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed capping Medi-Cal enrollment for the state's undocumented population following a years-long expansion that became far more costly than initially thought. Progressive Democrats are pushing hard for their colleagues to consider corporate tax hikes to help pay for those Medi-Cal benefits. Those involved in the efforts insist lawmakers in both the Senate and the Assembly are taking proposals to make wealthy individuals and corporations pay up seriously. In the Assembly, Democrats have circulated a revenue survey obtained by Playbook. It asks members their opinion on how the body should 'approach potential new revenue/taxes.' Lawmakers could select from three options: Playbook was still awaiting the results at the time of publication, if any friendly parties are interested in sharing them (wink wink, nudge nudge).IT'S WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. This is California Playbook PM, a POLITICO newsletter that serves as an afternoon temperature check on California politics and a look at what our policy reporters are watching. Got tips or suggestions? Shoot an email to lholden@ WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TODAY HIGH-SPEED SNAG: President Donald Trump's administration today announced that it's moving to terminate two grants totaling roughly $4 billion that were previously awarded to California's beleaguered high-speed rail project, our Sam Ogozalek reports for POLITICO Pro subscribers. In a letter to Ian Choudri, CEO of the California High-Speed Rail Authority, the Federal Railroad Administration blasted the state, saying the agency 'has no confidence CHSRA will ever deliver an operating high-speed rail system,' wrote Drew Feeley, acting FRA administrator. The grant cancellations would affect a planned portion of the line from Merced to Bakersfield. A spokesperson for the rail authority in a statement said CHSRA disagrees with the federal government's conclusions, calling them 'misguided' and not reflective of the 'substantial progress' made on the project. The spokesperson added that the majority of funding has come from the state, not the FRA, and that Newsom's latest budget proposal would provide enough money over the next 20 years to complete the project's initial operating segment. 'The Authority will fully address and correct the record in our formal response to the FRA's notice,' the statement read. IN OTHER NEWS SOLAR STANDOFF: The Assembly left solar advocates fuming last night when it suspended a procedural waiting period to advance a proposal that would reduce subsidies to legacy rooftop solar customers, our Camille von Kaenel reports for Pro subscribers. The procedural rule in question requires the chamber to wait a 'full calendar day' after any amendments in order to vote on a bill. But lawmakers suspended that rule to approve Assemblymember Lisa Calderon's AB 942, which she had amended Monday to exempt schools and farms. The bill is now in the state Senate. ANTI-RTO CAUCUS: Republican Assemblymember Josh Hoover, Democratic Assemblymember Robert Garcia and 15 other lawmakers signed a letter urging Newsom to delay his mandate that state workers return to the office four days per week, which is set to start on July 1. Hoover and Garcia pushed the governor to delay the executive order until the state auditor can complete a study the Joint Legislative Audit Committee approved after the governor ordered state workers back to the office two days per week last spring. They noted the potential for the mandate to 'exacerbate our budget shortfall and hamper our ability to protect important programs from devastating cuts.' 'Given the significant implications of the return to work order, we believe it is critical to fully understand the impacts of telework on our state budget and workforce prior to making a decision to reduce its use,' the letter said. WHAT WE'RE READING TODAY — The FBI arrested Daniel Park, a 32-year-old from Washington, for charges related to the bombing of a fertility clinic in Palm Springs. (The Associated Press) — Yucca Valley resident Thomas Eugene Streval pleaded not guilty to three felony counts of making threats online to shoot President Donald Trump shortly after the 2024 election. (Los Angeles Times) — The San Jose City Council settled a civil-rights lawsuit on Tuesday with a $620,000 payout to seven people who say they were targeted and injured by police during protests related to the death of George Floyd. (Mercury News) AROUND THE STATE — The San Diego City Council approved an 18 percent fee hike for ambulance rides over the next three years, but they say those increases will mostly be paid by insurance companies. (San Diego Union-Tribune) — The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority ratified a new contract with their workers' union and awaits approval from their board of directors. (Mercury News) — San Francisco budget officials considered and then quietly discarded a plan to charge property owners $100 a year for their driveways. (San Francisco Chronicle) — compiled by Nicole Norman
