In the Fashion world, the seasons have designers working overtime to get their houses ready for the incoming trends—from clothes and makeup to handbags and shoes. The Spring/Summer 2020 seasonal showcase wasn’t any different. Designers all around the world agreed to be environmentally friendly in their designs for this season. This meant reducing their carbon footprints and using sustainable materials for their pieces. One of the top designers for shoes and handbag trends for Spring/Summer 2020 is Aurora James.

Who is Aurora James?

Aurora James is a New-York based fashion designer. She is the Creative Director and Founder of the luxury accessories brand, Brother Vellies. Aurora is among the few top young women of color in the fashion industry. She owes her love for fashion to her mother, who was a collector of fashion pieces. She also credits different women from around the world as her inspiration for her unique style of design.

Brother Vellies

Aurora James founded Brother Vellies in 2013 after working for some time as a freelance fashion consultant. The brand was launched to preserve the craft of shoemaking in Africa and create new jobs for the artisans employed in her workshops. A collection that is literally produced from one continent to the next (Africa to the Americas), her company manufactures shoes and handbags using locally sourced materials and labor. Some of her designs for the SS20 season include the Springbok Billfold Bag and the Midnight Olivia Pump.

Shoe Trends

1.    Chain links and anklets

One of the most prominent features in SS20 shoe trends is the chain details for shoes. The chains appear as a joint anklet or a link at the front of the shoe. This small yet handy addition gives shoes an edge over the rest. The chain links and anklet shoes are perfect for both formal and casual events, especially evening parties. Check out brands such as Aminah Abdul Jillil and Valentino.

2.    Shades

What are the spring and summer months without bold, bright, and energetic colors? Bold oranges, warm saffrons, vivid coral pinks, and fiery reds are just a few of the dynamic colors featured in the Spring/Summer 2020-fashion runways. From heels to sneakers and even sandals, these brightly colored shoes give your outfits flavor and character. Amazing examples are Nike’s LDV Waffle Sneakers and Giuseppe Zanotti Leather Flower Strappy Sandals.

3.    Espadrilles

Spring/Summer 2020 will thrive on espadrilles. These once forgotten pieces are coming back bigger than ever. They infuse different concepts, including heels, platform blocks, and knee-length boot covers. Great designs for this trend are Alighieri Black Lion Medallion Embellished Grosgrain Espadrilles and Alohas Sandals Cristian’s Leather Espadrilles.

Handbag Trends

1.    Rope bags

Ulla Johnson made a whole collection of bags with woven details that go well with any pair of espadrilles. Examples include the Nilou Tote and the Imogen Carryall.

2.    Bamboo handles

Some designers chose to infuse natural materials into other materials. Bamboo handles thus appeared in many collections. Handbags with bamboo handles are incredibly stylish and unique. The handles are also very durable and environmentally friendly.

3.     Wristlet handbags

These tiny to small handbags all had one thing in common, a wrist strap. The straps make beautiful single or multi-layered bracelets. These wristlet handbags are great evening party accessories and go well with a vast range of outfits.