patent and trademark concerns, I can’t reveal all our design secrets, but our products are sturdy yet comfortable and still feminine.” Eight Royale’s products are carried in hotels and spas in Washington, D.C., where travelers and visitors may need a nice pair of comfy shoes to enjoy museums and tourist destinations. SHOE FASHION DURING COVID-19 Eight Royale survived the pandemic “by the grace of God,” as Truitt says, and due to online shopping. She posted this message of appreciation to her many women customers during the pandemic: “We express gratitude and honor the woman who is wearing our Eight Royale flats. We appreciate the role that you are playing in leading the world to safety. We honor you for your sacrifices—for serving as caregivers, impromptu home- stocking shelves—and all the while, nurturing and finding time to make those around you feel loved. Recent events have reminded us of the unwavering elegance, regality, and brilliance of women. Women make the world go round because of our immense capacity to love. For all of these reasons, we salute you!” school teachers, essential workers
However, comfort does not mean boring or ugly shoes. Design and art still matter. The running shoe has gone high fashion. Flats in vibrant colors and adorned with jewels will be significant. We are seeing a trend toward cleaner lines, classic patterns, and pieces that will be staples for years. These are ideal for Eight Royale flats! THE FUTURE OF EIGHT ROYALE In the future, Eight Royale plans to expand into other luxury items. “We just launched a line of fragrant beeswax candles for the home and spa. Our Gardenia Garden is a massive seller for those who enjoy self- care Sundays. I hope to continue building on our mission to offer curated items for a luxurious but affordable lifestyle.” As this is the Color issue, Truitt shares her favorite color with us. “My favorite color, which I use in the Eight Royale logo, is what I call ‘Parisian Blue.’ It’s a cross between Lapis/ Azure/Navy and Berry. It reminds me of the color of the skies over Paris on a fall afternoon as I sit at a Left Bank café people- watching. My imagination is quite vivid!”
As Covid-19 lessened, and people started to get out more and had to change out of their pajamas and be presentable again, ladies still wanted to be comfortable in their stylish clothes and shoes. NEW TRENDS: NOT SACRIFICING EITHER COMFORT OR FASHION As we emerge back into the world, Truitt comments on what she sees happening in
shoe fashion. Trends are headed toward better orthopedics and comfort. “Even now, after heels try to make a comeback, many women stick with shoes that save the toes, like Birkenstocks and flats. If you’ve seen the runways for everyone from Rag & Bone to Valentino—women know there is no need to sacrifice comfort for fashion. If it’s a heel, it’s a platform (no more teetering on thin heels).”
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