US brand OKA b. is taking on a tough market by launching in the homeland of the thong. However the brand is banking on some unique selling points to cut a swathe through the Australian thong market.
OKA b. shoes utilise the therapeutic principles of reflexology in their design, including an ergonomic foot bed enhanced with massage beads. Made from non-absorbent material that resists the growth of mildew, fungus and bacteria, the shoes are also odour resistant, waterproof, non-slip, vegan friendly and machine washable.
OKA b.'s key selling point is their fashion-forward styling however. Encompassing the full spectrum of styles from sleek mid-heel thongs and slides to modern ballet flats, the brand adapts runway trends and fashion looks to pamper feet all day through, from a morning at work, to an afternoon at the beach and even a night on the town.
Exhibiting at the Sydney edition of Australian Shoe Fair from 14-16 February, OKA b. representatives said the response of buyers to the brand was strong, confirming they had been "writing orders all day" when shoe fair representatives stopped by at their stand.