Limited-edition and exclusive sneakers aren’t the only things that keep Addict’s customers loyal. Store founder Eric Guedj explains just how far his fashionable sneakers can take you.
Uncharted territory: In the beginning at Bal Harbour, no one understood what I wanted to do. The vendors said to me, “Eric, you cannot sell sneakers next to Chanel.” Once we opened, they saw the niche to sell very high-end sneakers to high-end customers.
Hip-hop society: Our regulars include Diddy, Usher and Craig David; they know if there’s a new shoe released, we’ll be the first to get it.
Custom collaborations: For the last year we’ve had a huge buzz with the Jeremy Scott for Adidas line. He did some crazy stuff with clothing and shoes.
Cutting edge: Our customers run the gamut. We have locals, tourists, collectors, men and women who range in age from five to 77. They come here for something fashionable and something a little different.
Out on the town: Now you can find sneakers to match your tuxedo. People are demanding more and more high-end materials like croc, ostrich and iguana so that they can wear them with pants or a suit.
Ahead of the curve: I’ve always been fond of sneakers; it’s a way of life. I stay current by traveling a lot and paying attention to what my three children are into.
HIS TOP FIVE PICKS
1. Pirelli P-Zero Rex driving shoe
2. Alexander McQueen for Puma AMQ Scarred Street
3. Jeremy Scott for Adidas ObyO Wings
4. Lacoste Europa VR
5. Pantofola d’Oro Kangourou
