Years
Spoilt for Choice
Classic blazers, suits and trouser suits, straight skirts and turtleneck pullovers: the extravagance of the 1980s gives way to the moderation of the 1990s.
A huge variety of styles is now available. Grunge, hip-hop, Birkenstock, retro or Chanel — the possibilities are endless. There is a style, colour and price to suit everyone. People are continuing to spend as they did in the 1980s, but now they do so with concern for true value and meaning.
Borders are gradually being broken down. Communist regimes are being dismantled. Technology is starting to creep into people’s daily lives. Lower consumer spending, record unemployment and the economic slump mean that both women and men are starting to be content with basic clothing that is both modern and timeless.
Minimalism is leading to an exodus of accessories from the fashion scene. Jewellery is becoming almost inexistent. Hairstyles and make-up are kept discreet. Nineties women are sporting designer-label handbags, sunglasses and shoes. This minimalist fashion is strict by day and expressionist by night.
Towards the end of the decade, luxury does not necessarily have a label and is denoted rather by creativity and rarity.
This decade also sees the appearance of “schoolgirl” fashion: satin miniskirts, short tops, dainty florals, and first-communion socks and shoes all make a comeback.
1990
Anfibio orthopaedic boots are introduced – their increased depth can accommodate shoe inserts.
1991
Passarelli Family & Associates purchases 75% of the shares in Chaussures DeLuca. Vincenzo Passarelli has now been with the company for close to 20 years.
Members of Vincenzo’s family, Pina Passarelli and her husband, Franco Rota, join the team.
1992
A new style is introduced for Anfibio boots with a zipper on the side and laces on the upper. This innovative model is designed specifically for the men’s range.
1994
Passarelli Family & Associates becomes full owner of Chaussures DeLuca. The various family members play an increasingly active role in the company’s operations.
1995
The mid-range Secco line is re-launched as the Beluga line.
The first artisan-style boots in the Anfibio range are produced. With this launch, the company sets itself the mission of continually offering superior quality. The boots, which are unique in Canada, are decorated with scenes representing typical Canadian landscapes or Amerindian culture.
The Anfibio Sélect range is introduced — wool-lined boots for men, extremely warm and durable, and available in four or five styles. Following this, the Anfibio Sélect line for women is launched. At this time, women’s boots account for 50% of Chaussures DeLuca’s market share.
1997
In response to fashion demands, Chaussures DeLuca makes its first high-heeled and long winter boots for women, with the same qualities of waterproofing, warmth and comfort that have come to identify the Anfibio name.