Online retailer Jack Threads, which launched in 2008 with a mix of up-and-coming and established brands, is adding its own footwear label for fall ’16.
“The shoe collection is casual-dress — looks a guy can wear to work or dress down,” said Michael Vincent, senior buyer for footwear at Jack Threads. “It’s what the modern consumer is about. It’s something very wearable and, at the same time, classic.”
Jack Threads’ assortment, which includes apparel brands such as Publish, Levi’s and Shades of Grey, is targeted to the millennial customer, with the sweet spot being 27- to 30-year-olds, according to Vincent. The company also debuted a clothing collection in fall ’15.
Watch on FN
Meanwhile, the footwear category continues to show year-on-year growth. Among its top brands are Sperry, Timberland and Vans, and the e-tailer has also teamed up on exclusives with Pony, Pointer, Eastland and Reebok. “We build product consumers can’t find anywhere else,” said Vincent. “It’s a good way to get our name out there and be different.”
Jack Threads also differentiates itself by offering fashion tips on the site to help shoppers coordinate a head-to-toe look. “Guys come to us to see our photography and how we style things,” said Vincent.
That brand aesthetic was an important factor when it came to creating Jack Threads’ own shoe line. “I felt there was a void [in the footwear market], whether for a style or price point,” said Vincent. “Typically, private-label brands just knock off looks, then put their logo on the shoe. I’m building a brand with a unique DNA.”
Styles in the line range from about $150 to $180 and are sourced from countries including China and Portugal. “It’s basically whoever can give us the best quality at the best price,” said Vincent.
