Source: Jeremy Moeller / Getty
If you’ve ever stepped out in a sleek, statement-making shoe or carried a bag that looks way more expensive than it actually was, chances are you’ve worn something from Steve Madden or Kurt Geiger. Both brands have been serving fashion lovers for years, offering bold styles that often make you feel like that girl without taking all your coins.
In a major business move, Steve Madden bought Kurt Geiger for $360 million. The merger is rippling through the fashion world, and many wonder what is next.
RELATED: 7 Must-Haves From Kurt Geiger’s Spring Summer Collection
Kurt Geiger has been a London staple for decades but has really found its stride in the U.S. market in the past few years. With colorful, structured bags and statement shoes, the brand became a favorite for people who want a high-fashion look at a fraction of the price. Everyone loves a good ‘look for less’ moment.
Arguably, at the center of it all is the Kensington Flap Bag—a quilted, structured beauty with an eagle emblem that comes in multiple sizes, colors, and finishes. Whether you’re into classic black, bold metallics, or intricate embellishments, there’s a version that fits your vibe.
It’s a go-to alternative to designer bags from Chanel and Dior and is available everywhere, from Kurt Geiger’s flagship stores to Nordstrom’s, Macy’s, TJ Maxx, and more.
Further, the brand has been co-signed by some of our favorite fashion It Girls. Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Kelly Rowland have all been spotted in Kurt Geiger, proving that the brand connects with culture and impact. Viola Davis and Lupita Nyong’o have also rocked pieces from the label on the red carpet, showing that KG can create a major camera moment.
Steve Madden built an empire on trend-driven, accessible fashion, and with Kurt Geiger now in the mix, big questions loom. The biggest? Whether Kurt Geiger’s quality will shift under Madden’s leadership. Known for well-crafted, affordable luxury, shoppers wonder if materials or craftsmanship will change.
Another consideration is whether Kurt Geiger will maintain its distinct, polished, European-inspired aesthetic. Steve Madden is known for its ability to keep up with trends, and some worry that this might lead to Kurt Geiger blending in with the existing brands in its portfolio.
On the other hand, this acquisition could be a significant win for shoppers who love Kurt Geiger but wish it were more accessible.
Steve Madden is steadily building a fashion powerhouse. The company already owns Betsey Johnson, Dolce Vita, and ATM Collection, making it a major player in standout accessories. With a track record of expanding brands, Steve Madden’s move could mean more Kurt Geiger products in more stores—at even better prices.
With Kurt Geiger joining these brands, Steve Madden is solidifying its position as a leader in affordable luxury.
Should we call it a comeback? Steve Madden once defined an entire era, from the towering platform heels of the late ’90s to the strappy stilettos that carried us through the early 2000s. Those who grew up in the ’80s remember flipping through magazines and seeing the brand’s aesthetic showcased in iconic ad campaigns and stylized imagery.
Although Steve Madden has remained a significant player in the fashion industry, the popularity of its namesake line has declined in recent years.
RELATED: Winnie Harlow Brings The Heat With Her Second Steve Madden Shoe Collection
This acquisition could allow Steve Madden to tap into the luxury-inspired market while reintroducing itself to a new generation of fashion lovers. Steve Madden is positioning itself as a brand that understands nostalgia and modern style, creating a space where trendy, statement-making fashion and timeless elegance coexist.
For now, shoppers can still find Kurt Geiger’s signature bags and shoes, and the brand hasn’t announced any major changes. However, as with any acquisition, things could shift over time. Whether this move leads to better accessibility or a change in quality remains to be seen.
DON’T MISS
GET THE LOOK: Cardi B’s Bodysuit She Wore For Her Steve Madden Campaign Is On Sale
Jumpstart Your Autumn Wardrobe These 7 Pieces From Kurt Geiger’s Fall 2024 Collection
Steve Madden Just Snatched Up Kurt Geiger—So Let’s Talk About It was originally published on hellobeautiful.com
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025
Opinion: Absurd White Folks Are Crying ‘Reverse Racism’ Over Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show
Meet the Men of The Silver Fox Squad: Breaking Stereotypes with Style
“Arab Americans For Trump” Change Name After Trump Gaza Takeover Threat
“40 Acres And A Mule” Explained: What Did Kendrick Lamar’s Line Mean In Black Historical Context
The Surrenderers: Trump’s Cadre of Black Supporters Gave Up Everything And Got Nothing in Return
The Twisted, Dark History Of Valentine’s Day
Op-Ed: Republicans Appalled After Journalist Calls Them ‘White Supremacists’— But Aren’t They?
We care about your data. See our privay policy.
An Urban One Brand
Copyright © 2025 Interactive One, LLC. All Rights Reserved.