EXCLUSIVE: Steve Madden Declares ‘Everyone Has Something to Say About Shoes’ With New Campaign Series Inspired by Indie Cinema

Steve Madden is ringing in the upcoming fall season with a new four-part campaign series, “Everyone Has Something to Say About Shoes,” inspired by indie cinema. These witty vignettes, in which the shoes are the main characters, showcase a wide-ranging footwear collection for men and women launching Monday.

The videos feature a range of up-and-coming and established talent, including singer-songwriter Grace VanderWaal, who signed with IMG models in 2017 at the age of 13, as well as Tanner Zagarino, Alana Morrison, Max Manticof, Ella Ballentine, Ruby Snowber, Faith Jaggernauth and Selina Yang.

Like the brand’s fall 2024 campaign “Never Miss a Beat” which highlighted icons of New York City, this latest Steve Madden marketing endeavor takes place in the city where the company is headquartered. The series, which was directed by Marissa Velez and styled by Gabrielle Karefa-Johnson, was shot on location at the cafés Lucien and Pete’s Tavern in New York City.

As named in the starring credits, “The Shoe Shrink” spotlights the slingback Shay and Azure heels as well as the Natal loafers; in “Heel Theory,” the Ramos sandal, Noir pump and Alexi-s mule styles take centerstage; in “Fur in September,” the Icon fuzzy boots and Dixon sneakers are highlighted; and in “Kill the Scene,” the brand showcases the Twain, Luca, Distortion and Revive styles, all of which are boots.

Modern updates are offered to classic styles this season, with options encompassing reimagined loafers, spectator loafers, Western-inspired boots, sculptural heels and patchwork styles.

On the men’s front, the brand sees loafers as a key style.

“Loafers have truly become the new cornerstone of the modern man’s wardrobe,” said Jake Frank, brand director for Steve Madden Men’s, in a statement. “Their versatility makes them a go-to for any occasion, and this season we’ve taken them further sleek silhouettes, bold materials and a balance of tradition and innovation.”

For women, shoe options get a little wild with an urban safari influence.

“Rich faux furs, exotic prints and patchwork textures elevate the season,” said chief product officer Christina Ciglar in a statement. “These are statement styles designed to stand out, whether on the streets or in the spotlight.”

Watch the “Shoe Shrink,” “Heel Theory,” “Fur in September” and “Kill the Scene” below.