In 1990 with a mere $1,100 in the bank, Steve Madden swiftly followed his intuition to create the next big trend, anticipate consumer needs and subsequently deliver collections that were both cutting edge and highly saleable. Channeling his creative energy to produce a variety of silhouettes and vibrant styles in his Queens-based factory, quickly his dream became reality and the Steve Madden brand was born.
Ispired by the streets
The prolific designer’s expertise in trend forecasting has propelled him to the top of his field. Relying on sheer instinct, he transformed a footwear relic into a phenomenon when he introduced a new amped up platform shoe at the launch of his company. Inspired by rock stars of the 70s, Madden’s now famous chunky platform shoes were one of the biggest success stories of the time and became a hallmark to the brand. With his finger on the pulse of pop culture, Madden says, “What inspires me is what I see people wearing on the streets of the world from New York to London and beyond. I get my ideas and inspiration from pounding the pavement.”
Steve Madden is in Italy
Today, the Steve Madden brand has evolved into a lifestyle company that not only owns Steve Madden, Steven by Steve Madden, Madden Girl, Freebird, Stevie’s, but it also owns and operates Betsey Johnson, Dolce Vita, Brian Atwood, Jocelyn, Report, Cejon, Mad Love, and Blondo; while it is the licensee of various brands, including handbags, belts, and the sought after sneaker brand, Superga.
