Although located away from the traditional leather-producing region in Germany, Düsseldorf has a close tie to the leather industry through SHOES Düsseldorf; a fashion fair dedicated to the shoe and leather sectors. Sustainability, minimalist design, and luxury craftsmanship are the words to best describe the collections being showcased at the event. The event ran a packed program of seminars, keynote lectures and trend forecasts. Buyers Briefings and Order-Information sessions provided retailers with insights on retail concepts, sustainable products, and digital tools to better serve their customers. A standout feature of the 2024 edition was the “Rising Retail & Event Concepts Area,” where innovative retail concepts were showcased. Here, specialist retailers received targeted training on sales techniques aimed at enhancing the in-store shopping experience. Experts walked sales assistants through realistic scenarios and honed the skills necessary to close a sale. SHOES Düsseldorf aside, there’s one local brand operating in Düsseldorf’s leather industry. The brainchild of Jasmin Schmitz, Monolar exemplifies the new direction for luxury leather. Her collection features vegetable-tanned leather goods crafted with traditional techniques. Schmitz sources her leather from local horses, using hides that are by-products of the meat industry, which would otherwise go to waste. For Schmitz, high-quality leather can be both ethically and locally sourced. Monolar’s offerings include sleek crossbody bags, classic weekenders, and minimalist business card holders. The pieces are designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind, featuring subtle brass fittings that elevate the design. For Schmitz, luxury lies in “masterful craftsmanship” and the appreciation of products built to last. By focusing on minimalist, timeless designs, she caters to a generation that values sustainability and quality over fast fashion.