Moda fair: new exhibitors to know about - WeareSaints

In a new mini series in the lead up to the host of internationally recognised trade fairs happening across the UK over the next couple of months, FashionUnited is looking at some of the emerging designers exhibiting at these events for the

first time. Founders and creative directors from across the continent are giving us insight into their labels and why they decided on a specific trade fair. Here we talk to WeAreSaints founder and creative director of menswear niche footwear label, who will be at Moda Gents/accessories for the first time.
 
Who

is WeAreSaints – what’s the design direction, how did the label come about?
Many brands available today forget the loyal retailers who buy into their ethos season upon season. Retailers are not machines and their loyalty warrants our respect, which is why we aim to be as flexible as possible in these rigid times. Beyond that and design wise, at WeAreSaints our greatest asset is an attentive ear to the changing sound of fashion, which is why we never fail to bring an off-beat sampling of colours, textures and patterns with a confident international style.

What fair are you at and why did you choose Moda?
With an eye on budget, many independents are scaling back the shows that they attend. For this reason it has become so important to attend the UK shows which attract a broad spectrum of retailers to maximise brand exposure. Moda has always been one of my favourite shows, not only do you get to mix with faces from the past but it’s the perfect launch-pad for a ‘people brand’ like WeAreSaints where we get to put a face to the name.

What makes WeAreSaints niche and to know about in the market?
WeAreSaints doesn’t fit a mould, we are fresh, we are funky but we are current and the lengths we go to in including industry figures in product design development  is unique.
 
Who is your target customer?
Our products scream out at the Facebook generation but echoes are heard above and beyond the age barrier....friend’s fathers wear our signature Kennedy espadrilles and swear they’re the most comfortable thing they’ve ever worn!

What do you expect of your first participation at Moda?
Moda is a get together of the industries movers and shakers. We are here to showcase our product and build on the product. Our first show here at Moda follows a natural progression that WeAreSaints is making.   

What is going to be your bestseller this coming season?
Our ‘Riley’ boot will be an amazing addition to the range this coming season. With a clean low-top suede upper, white laces, contrast stitching and a thick solid white rubber sole, this will be the seasons must have item.

What do you hope target/sales wise to achieve from exhibiting at Moda?
It’s a given that you’re going to get exposure at quality trade shows like Moda. Exposure translates to sales when Independents feel confident in the brand. We have ensured this will be the case by producing lines that are pleasing on the eye but light on budget, a balance that’s often sought after but rarely achieved. In our new digital days, why do you think trade fairs have stayed strong presence wise In this industry you cannot be caught napping. The serious players swarm to shows to see what’s current and what’s selling. Without shows like Moda our job would be made that much harder!