TOMS Shoes: more than a fashion statement for A&M students

Walking around Texas A&M, a visitor might see a variety of fashion statements that would catch them off guard. From neon-colored hats to "I heart boobies" plastic bracelets, Aggies love to advertise their organization and cause. One trend that seems to be catching on is the canvas slippers known as TOMS. They come in colors that span the rainbow, with accents ranging from stripes to sparkles. But as it turns out, these shoes are more than just the latest trend.

Blake Mycoskie founded TOMS after he visited Argentina in 2006. He was exposed to widespread poverty most are shielded from in the U.S. Children who grow up barefoot are exposed to disease and injury. Chronic illness can lead to a decline in education and opportunities for success. Mycoskie said he was inspired to make a change, and created the One for One mission. With every pair of TOMS Shoes purchased, a pair of shoes is donated to a child in need. TOMS Shoes donate to 24 countries, and have so far donated more than one million shoes.  

In Aggieland, Northgate Vintage started carrying TOMS Shoes in 2007, shortly after the business began.

"Originally, we were approached by a former [student] and customer, who now works for TOMS. He called me up and said he believed TOMS would be a great fit for Northgate Vintage. After a little research, I told him I was worried it wouldn't catch on in College Station, but it was worth a shot. The ‘one for one' concept was really cool, and the shoes are so casual, it seemed a natural fit for the store," said Ryan Ewing, owner of Northgate Vintage. The store began selling TOMS Shoes before major campaigning took place. "I feel fortunate that we had a solid group of individuals who adopted the trend early, and really promoted the company locally."

Today, TOMS Shoes are commonplace on Texas A&M campus. This year, the TOMS Club became a recognized organization on campus. The TOMS Club promotes the mission of TOMS Shoes.

"I love to give back, but as a busy college student, I'm not always able to donate tons of time or money to a great cause, so this is just another way that I can give back," said Ashleigh Hancock, chairwoman for the Texas A&M TOMS Club.

On April 5, 2011 the club will support the TOMS One Day Without Shoes Campaign. This day is meant to promote awareness of how vital a pair of shoes is by having supporters go one day without wearing shoes. Toms Club will also be holding benefit events in the future to profit the One for One mission.

While many students fully embrace the TOMS fad, other students are more skeptical. The shoe's less-than-conventional design inspired criticism from some.

"They are not waterproof, so they get wet in the rain and they smell after a while," said freshman English major Rachel Byrd, who frequently wears TOMS.

Still, Byrd said, she's happy with her shoes.

"I wear them because it's a good cause," Byrd said. "And I like the way they look."

The TOMS Shoes fever seems to be spreading, as more and more Aggies buy into the trend.

"The mission of TOMS is becoming more of a widespread phenomenon," Hancock said. "Purchasing a pair of stylish, well-made shoes is a simple and easy way to give back."