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While next fall may seem far, far away to most people, for buyers the season to snap up fall/winter '10/'11 footwear is right around the corner. The only catch? Even though retailers may get a hint of what will fly off shelves next year based on fashion magazines and what customers are buying now, predicting the future is never easy. Luckily, fashion forecasting firm Stylesight does exactly that. "Stylesight has an exceptional radar for trends," says global trends VP Renee Labbe. "Our collective insight, combined with our site's research tools, creates a powerful filter for which to analyze trends." So, what should buyers be on the lookout for? Here are four of Labbé's top picks.

Michael Kors

Trans-Seasonal Footwear
"This is a big must-have for consumers looking for more value in their purchases, and footwear designers have really stepped up to respond. Everything from removable pieces, fold-over silhouettes and convertible options are fair game here."

Perlina

Heritage
"This trend links back to what consumers are searching for in their purchases. Classic silhouettes are not only reinterpreted in a modern way, additional elements of the total design suggest integrity of craftsmanship and well-made goods."

Robert Clergerie

Gender Bending
"We've been watching this trend play out quite strongly in apparel, and the mood is certainly transcending across footwear markets as well. We’re seeing variations on tailored oxfords for women, while more decorative looks emerge in men's footwear."

Marc Jacobs

Sci-Fi Hybrids
"What the rise of the gladiator footwear trend started a few seasons ago, the Sci-Fi hybrid has since taken over, but with all of the same intensity of commercial appeal. Sci-Fi fantasy embellishments from apparel and new hardware updates offer fresh updates."

Stylesight is the leading provider of trend forecasting and product development tools for creative professionals in the fashion and style industries. The company is headquartered inNew York with offices in Los Angeles, London, Paris, Sao Paulo, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Melbourne. Stylesight's subscribers include many of the world's leading manufacturing, retail and design companies. Find out more at stylesight.com

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