Firebrand on Ice

Jessica Incorvaia has an eye for interior design as well as for feet, hence her trendy store for footwear. Firebrand Footwear, at 715 Elmwood Avenue, is a fairly recent addition to the Elmwood store market, having been open since September of last year.
With the Christmas shopping season over, Jackie (who was behind the counter when we stopped in) said that business has slowed a little, but she hopes that the sales they offer at Firebrand will keep people coming back. The good news is that the sales are great. Boots are priced to move, and the last few of any style are put on sale. If you're a unique size, on either side of average, you're poised to get a good deal.

Firebrand offers a unique variety of shoes, including (but certainly not limited to): Nina Dolls, Triple Five Soul, Gola, Keds, Adidas, Converse, and Pajar.
If unique shoes are a passion, an interest, or just something you want to take a look at, a good suggestion might be the sequined Converse’s in red or black. At least, those looked pretty interesting to someone on our staff, and you might have to beat her there to buy them first.

This modern sneaker shop is perfect for the average consumer or the trendy-minded Elmwoodian. You can visit www.firebrandfootwear.com for more information, but really, check out their Myspace at www.myspace.com/firebrandbuffalo for the most information. If you’re curious as to how cool the interior of the store is, check out this article for some awesome pictures.

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JohnMartin
Even if business is slow with the typical cadre of Elmwood browsers, um, I mean shoppers, her Dad (Jim of Jim's Steak Out) won't let her go out of business. She is the perfect Elmwood businessperson, tied to a family funding stream to get through the months when people don't want sparkly $200 shoes.
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ChocolateShake
I thought I saw BetterThanDetroit sporting those red sequin shoes in the downtown BAC lockeroom. Buffalo is a very small world.
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scooter
Thats a great dad to have (Jim from Jim Steakout).
But, having been a customer (wife) I know first hand Jessica is busting her butt, and running a first rate store.
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Hoss
January has got to be the toughest month of all for any retail business, let alone one that's just starting out. So hang in there girl. Hopefully marketing to the suburban folk and UB students is in your business plan. It would probably behoove you to get in on the online sales action as well. The unique/collectible sneaker rage is huge in LA and NYC, and buyers often go online when their desired style/size aren't available at the local sneak boutique. It's only a matter of time before this past-time is considered cutting edge in the heartland. Just look at all the knuckleheads riding fixies around town.
I know my wife dropped some coin there before the holidays because I just paid the credit card bill last week. She is very happy in her knee high orange happy sneaks, and will certainly be back.
This little quote from above "If you're a unique size, on either side of average," is why I sadly can't be shopping there. I'm a man's size 15 (a bit above average) self proclaimed shoe whore, and since Firebrand sizing peaks at about size 12 (w/o even an offer to find what I need), my shoe excursions are unfortunately limited to NYC or the internet. I do look in the window and drool, but too bad that doesn't cover the lease.
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BetterThanDetroit
Funny Chocolateshook, I just left the downtown BAC. Maybe you are staklking me in the locker room...I'm sure it wasnt my feet you were looking at. Is it my fault I'm blessed and you gawk? Listen people, what happened to Das Boot and Shoe Fly? What makes you think this overprices place can compete with eBay?
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stephenjames716
I love this store. very cool design and the sneakers are equally impressive. keep up the good work.
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Joshua
I visited the store once and it was very nicely done. Although, not the kind of shoes I would choose, I'm sure these kinds of shoes would cater to the Elmwood crowd. I just think that most of the clothing stores on Elmwood are too artsy or too specific for me.
I think that is why I would prefer a clothing (like a Gap) or shoe store (like DSW).
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MiesvanderDoh
shoe fly is still around. das boot catered to a dying trend.
i think what she did with the city tropic place is great, and wish success. I need to get in there and get a pair
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girl16
What are their hours? I was there at 11:20 today and they were closed.
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buffawhat
Jessica is such an awesome girl, and you gotta give her lots of credit for wanting to have her own business. She is so sassy and fun and does her own thing, I'm glad to see her on Elmwood.
p.s. - Nice Article Eli.
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firebrand
Thanks to all the supporters!
My personal Apology to those that have tried to come by at 11 and found no one there... I have posted new hours today for the winter season which are as follows: mon 12-6 tues 11:30-7 wed 11:30-7 thurs 11:30-7 fri 11:30-8 sat 11:30-7 sun 12-5
sorry for any trouble this may have caused...
also, another apology to mr. hoss for not being able to order his size. Currently it is impossible for me to pre-order these extended sizes. However, if there is a brand you are interested in, I can perhaps show you a catalog for future shoe styles and we can place an order specifically for you. Same goes to anyone with a size I do not keep in stock.
Anyways, I am trying my best to stick around this beautiful neighborhood and help keep all local businesses in business. I know the stuff we carry isn't for everyone. But, I can assure you that I am constantly working to bring in new, more affordable, and interesting styles for the future.
Please keep coming in , I truly value everyones patronage, even if it only means drooling on my window displays.
Thank You -FIREBRAND Jessica Incorvaia
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dixiechick
I know how difficult it can be to bring a new business, continue a business in B'flo. You go girl! The shoes are beautiful, and I support you for bringing your business to the City! We need more positive people like you! Believer me, there are plenty of trendy, cool, groovy folks here who would much prefer to spend their bucks in the City store than go to DSW. I wish you the best!
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HeroBeth
Jessica has an absolutely beautiful store and is a great person. Having another place to get great shoes, boots and sneakers was needed here, and Firebrand has filled that void for a lot of us, that couldnt find that perfect pair elsewhere. Its irrelevant who people's family members are, what matters is having a store owner who is committed and dedicated to what he/she is doing, being a good neighbor and taking care of their space, and Jessica does all of these things!! Keep it up lady!! We love your store.
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RisingDamp666
Those boots are hilarious. Weren't they featured in one of those 40's Canadian Mounty movies?
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Hoss
Wow! I just noticed that I received a message from Jessica. Now that's customer service. Anyone who is looking for some cool kicks should not hesitate supporting this woman and her venture. I know we'll be back.
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