By Patrick Hedlund
DNAinfo News Editor
MANHATTAN — If the shoe fits?
New York City style is being marketed to the masses with a line of Lower East Side-inspired merchandise from discount retailer Payless ShoeSource.
The shoe chain has recently been showing off its "Lower East Side" collection for teens, featuring everything from winter boots and ladies’ pumps to earrings, necklaces and barrettes, Bowery Boogie reported.
The blog noted other brands that have sought to capitalize on the LES's gritty-to-glam cachet, including J. Crew and perfume-maker Bond No. 9, but took particular offense to the down-market shoe seller "exploiting" the neighborhood’s name.
Payless has recently been revamping its brand image with new design elements, as well as featuring the "Lower East Side" collection more prominently.
