Edgar Filing: STEVEN MADDEN, LTD.

Unassociated Document

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2010

o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from _________________ to _____________________

Commission File Number 0-23702

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware		13-3588231
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

52-16 Barnett Avenue, Long Island City, New York		11104
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (718) 446-1800

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes x No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes o No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer o	Accelerated filer x
Non-accelerated filer o (do not check if smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes o No x

As of November 5, 2010, the latest practicable date, there were 27,742,346 shares of common stock, $.0001 par value, outstanding.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD.

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT

September 30, 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I- FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.	Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited):

	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets	1

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income	2

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	3

	Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	4

ITEM 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	19

ITEM 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	29

ITEM 4.	Controls and Procedures	29

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.	Legal Proceedings	29

ITEM 6.	Exhibits	31

	Signatures	32

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands)

	September 30,			December 31,			September 30,
	2010			2009			2009
	(unaudited)						(unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	29,045		$	69,266		$	47,622
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $2,209, $1,195 and $1,806		12,846			11,071			9,909
Due from factors, net of allowances of $10,934, $12,487 and $9,789		81,815			47,534			67,884
Inventories		44,485			30,453			29,678
Marketable securities – available for sale		20,395			17,971			12,815
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		11,590			6,295			6,896
Deferred taxes		8,827			8,779			7,746

Total current assets		209,003			191,369			182,550

Notes receivable		33,195			—			—
Note receivable – related party		3,791			3,568			3,552
Property and equipment, net		21,054			23,793			24,750
Deferred income taxes		6,309			7,543			6,688
Deposits and other		2,775			1,844			1,992
Marketable securities – available for sale		103,179			67,713			65,254
Goodwill – net		36,613			24,313			24,313
Intangibles – net		14,095			6,716			7,191

Total Assets	$	430,014		$	326,859		$	316,290

LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	37,302		$	24,544		$	26,682
Accrued expenses		21,525			15,338			16,914
Income taxes payable		5,935			166			8,729
Accrued incentive compensation		11,864			12,314			8,819

Total current liabilities		76,626			52,362			61,144

Contingent payment liability		12,000			—			—
Deferred rent		5,494			5,044			4,974
Other liabilities		1,577			1,666			274

Total Liabilities		95,697			59,072			66,392

Commitments, contingencies and other

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred stock – $.0001 par value, 5,000 shares authorized; none issued; Series A Junior Participating preferred stock – $.0001 par value, 60 shares authorized; none issued
Common stock – $.0001 par value, 60,000 shares authorized, 36,122 35,687 and 35,438 shares issued, 27,719, 27,425 and 27,176 outstanding		4			3			3
Additional paid-in capital		158,945			147,703			143,437
Retained earnings		305,465			247,365			233,809
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gain on marketable securities		2,446			700			633
Treasury stock – 8,403, 8,262 and 8,262 shares at cost		(132,543	)		(127,984	)		(127,984	)

Total Stockholders’ Equity		334,317			267,787			249,898

Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity	$	430,014		$	326,859		$	316,290

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements - unaudited

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income

(unaudited)

(in thousands, except per share data)

		Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2010			2009			2010			2009


Net sales	$	184,118		$	140,138		$	474,390		$	364,039

Cost of sales		106,610			78,462			268,096			209,313

Gross profit		77,508			61,676			206,294			154,726

Commission, royalty and licensing fee income – net		6,587			5,726			18,000			15,993
Operating expenses		(46,707	)		(39,088	)		(129,994	)		(112,729	)

Income from operations		37,388			28,314			94,300			57,990
Interest and other income, net		1,201			488			2,927			1,252

Income before provision for income taxes		38,589			28,802			97,227			59,242
Provision for income taxes		15,673			10,971			39,127			22,690

Net income	$	22,916		$	17,831		$	58,100		$	36,552

Basic income per share	$	0.83		$	0.66		$	2.11		$	1.35

Diluted income per share	$	0.81		$	0.64		$	2.06		$	1.34

Basic weighted average common shares outstanding		27,680			27,152			27,593			27,003
Effect of dilutive securities – options/restricted stock		555			522			643			356

Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding		28,235			27,674			28,236			27,359

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements - unaudited

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(unaudited)

(in thousands)

	Nine Months Ended
	September 30,
	2010			2009

Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	58,100		$	36,552
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Excess tax benefit from the exercise of options		(2,882	)		(187	)
Depreciation and amortization		7,364			7,113
Loss on disposal of fixed assets		543			718
Non-cash compensation		5,963			4,332
Provision for bad debts		(539	)		294
Accrued interest on note receivable – related party		(223	)		(182	)
Deferred rent expense		463			169
Realized (gain) loss on marketable securities		(32	)		65
Changes in:
Accounts receivable		(2,121	)		(4,618	)
Due from factor		(32,728	)		(33,591	)
Inventories		(13,732	)		1,919
Prepaid expenses, deposits and other assets		(4,216	)		1,086
Accounts payable and other accrued expenses		26,534			23,773
Other liabilities		(102	)		(1,019	)

Net cash provided by operating activities		42,392			36,424

Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property and equipment		(2,280	)		(2,403	)
Purchase of marketable securities		(54,341	)		(54,699	)
Sale/redemption of marketable securities		18,592			12,913
Purchase of notes receivable		(34,186	)		—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired *		(11,119	)		(5,776	)

Net cash used in investing activities		(83,334	)		(49,965	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of advances from factor		—			(30,168	)
Proceeds from options exercised		2,398			1,556
Tax benefit from exercise of options		2,882			187
Purchase of common stock for treasury		(4,559	)		—

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		721			(28,425	)

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(40,221	)		(41,966	)
Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period		69,266			89,588

Cash and cash equivalents – end of period	$	29,045		$	47,622

* The amount for 2009 includes $4,526 which was accrued at December 31, 2008.

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements - unaudited

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note A – Basis of Reporting

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Steven Madden, Ltd. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with the generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, such statements include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring items) which are considered necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position of the Company and the results of its operations and cash flows for the periods presented. The results of its operations for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the full year. It is suggested that these financial statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements and related disclosures for the year ended December 31, 2009 included in the Annual Report of Steven Madden, Ltd. on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 12, 2010.

Note B – Stock Split

On March 24, 2010, the Board of Directors declared a 3-for-2 stock split of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock, effected in the form of a stock dividend on the Company’s outstanding common stock. Stockholders of record at the close of business on April 20, 2010 received one additional share of Steven Madden, Ltd. common stock for every two shares of common stock owned on that date. The additional shares were distributed on May 3, 2010. Stockholders received cash in lieu of any fractional shares of common stock they otherwise would have received in connection with the dividend. All share and per share data provided herein gives effect to this stock split, applied retroactively.

Note C – Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

In January 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued new accounting guidance which expands disclosure requirements relating to fair value measurements. The guidance adds requirements for disclosing amounts of and reasons for significant transfers into and out of Levels 1 and 2 and requires gross rather than net disclosures about purchases, sales, issuance and settlements relating to Level 3 measurements. The guidance also provides clarification that fair value measurement disclosures are required for each class of assets and liabilities. Disclosures about the valuation techniques and inputs used to measure fair value for measurements that fall in either Level 2 or Level 3 are also required. The Company adopted the provisions of the guidance as of March 31, 2010, except for disclosure about purchases, sales, issuance and settlements in the roll forward of activity in Level 3 fair value measurement, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. Disclosures are not required for earlier periods presented for comparative purposes. The new guidance affects disclosures only and, therefore, the adoption had no impact on the Company’s results of operation or financial position.

A new accounting pronouncement amending the consolidation guidance relating to variable interest entities (“VIE”) became effective for the Company on January 1, 2010. The new guidance replaces the current quantitative model for determining the primary beneficiary of a VIE with a qualitative approach that considers which entity has the power to direct activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s performance and whether the entity has an obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The adoption of the accounting pronouncement had no material impact on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Note D – Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note D – Use of Estimates (continued)

Significant areas involving management estimates include allowances for bad debts, returns and customer chargebacks, and deferred tax asset valuation allowance. The Company provides reserves on trade accounts receivable and due from factors for future customer chargebacks and markdown allowances, discounts, returns and other miscellaneous compliance related deductions that relate to the current period sales. The Company evaluates anticipated chargebacks by reviewing several performance indicators of its major customers. These performance indicators, which include retailers’ inventory levels, sell-through rates and gross margin levels, are analyzed by management to estimate the amount of the anticipated customer allowance.

Note E – Due To and From Factor

The Company has a collection agency agreement with Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. (“Rosenthal”). Under the agreement, the Company can request advances from Rosenthal of up to 85% of aggregate receivables factored by Rosenthal. The agreement provides the Company with a credit facility in the amount of $30,000, having a sub-limit of $15,000 on the aggregate face amount of letters of credit, at an interest rate that, at the Company’s election, is tied to either the prime rate or LIBOR.

Note F – Notes Receivable

As of September 30, 2010, Notes Receivable were comprised of the following:

Due from Bakers Footwear Group, Inc.	$	4,009
Due from Betsey Johnson LLC		29,186
Total	$	33,195

On August 26, 2010, the Company entered into a Debenture and Stock Purchase Agreement with Bakers Footwear Group, Inc. (“Bakers”) pursuant to which the Company paid $5,000 to acquire a subordinated debenture in the principal amount of $5,000 and 1,844,860 unregistered shares of Bakers common stock which trades on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board. The Company allocated $996 of the purchase price to the common stock and $4,004 to the subordinated debenture. The debenture, which has an interest rate of 11% payable quarterly in cash, is payable in four equal installments of $1,250 due on August 31, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. The difference between the $4,004 purchase price of the debenture and the $5,000 principal amount of the debenture is considered original issue discount and is being amortized over the life of the debenture. As of September 30, 2010, the total amount of the discount amortized was $5 bringing the value of the note to $4,009.

On August 27, 2010, the Company purchased from various members of a loan syndicate their respective participations in a term loan in the aggregate outstanding principal amount of $48,750 (the “Loan”) made by the syndicate lenders to Betsey Johnson LLC (“Betsey Johnson”). The Loan was originally made to Betsey Johnson pursuant to a Loan and Security Agreement dated as of August 20, 2007 (the “Syndicate Loan Agreement”) between Betsey Johnson and the syndicate lenders, which provided Betsey Johnson a term loan of $50,000. The Syndicate Loan Agreement contemplated repayment of principal in quarterly installments of varying amounts over the course of the loan with a final installment on August 20, 2012 and interest accruing at a rate equal to the greater of 10% or LIBOR plus 5%. The Loan, which was secured by a first priority security interest on substantially all assets of Betsey Johnson, was in default on the date of purchase. The aggregate purchase price paid by the Company to the syndicate lenders for their participations in the Loan was $29,186, including transaction costs. On October 5, 2010, the Company entered into a Restructuring Agreement with Betsey Johnson to effect a restructuring of the Loan. See Note S for a description of the restructuring of the Loan. In addition, on October 5, 2010, the Company made a new secured term loan to Betsey Johnson in the principal amount of $3,000 at an interest rate of 8% per annum. The principal amount and all accrued interest on the term loan will become due on December 31, 2015. The term loan is secured by a first priority security interest on substantially all of the remaining properties and assets of Betsey Johnson.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note G – Note Receivable – Related Party

On June 25, 2007, the Company made a loan to Steve Madden, its Creative and Design Chief and a principal stockholder of the Company, in the amount of $3,000, in order for Mr. Madden to satisfy a personal tax obligation resulting from the exercise of options that were due to expire and retain the underlying Company common stock, which he pledged to the Company as collateral to secure the loan. Mr. Madden executed a secured promissory note in favor of the Company bearing interest at an annual rate of 8% which was due on the earlier of the date Mr. Madden ceases to be employed by the Company or December 31, 2007. An amendment to the note dated December 19, 2007 extended the due date to March 31, 2009, and a second amendment dated April 1, 2009 changed the interest rate to 6% and extended the due date of both principal and interest to June 30, 2015. As of September 30, 2010, $791 of interest has accrued on the note and has been reflected on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Due to the 3-for-2 stock split effected on May 3, 2010 (see Note B above) the number of shares securing the loan increased from 510,000 shares to 765,000 shares. Based upon the increase in the market value of the Company’s common stock since the inception of the loan, on July 12, 2010, the Company determined to release from its security interest 555,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, retaining 210,000 shares with a total market value on that date of $6,798, as collateral for the loan.

Note H – Marketable Securities

Marketable securities consist primarily of corporate and U.S. government and federal agency bonds with maturities greater than three months and up to six years at the time of purchase. These securities, which are classified as available-for-sale, are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of any tax effect, reported in stockholders’ equity as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). These securities are classified as current and non-current marketable securities based upon their maturities. Amortization of premiums and discounts is included in interest income. For the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2010, the amortization of bond premiums totals $320 and $822, respectively, compared to $396 and $563 for the comparable periods in 2009. The values of these securities may fluctuate as a result of changes in market interest rates and credit risk.

Note I – Fair Value Measurement

The Company adopted the provisions of FASB ASC 820-10, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” (“ASC 820-10”) for financial assets and liabilities effective January 1, 2008, and adopted ASC 820-10 for non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities effective January 1, 2009. ASC 820-10 clarifies the principle that fair value should be based on the assumptions market participants would use when pricing an asset or liability and establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the information used to develop those assumptions. ASC 820-10 utilizes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels.

A brief description of those three levels is as follows:

	●	Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	●	Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.
	●	Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note I – Fair Value Measurement (continued)

The Company’s financial assets subject to fair value measurements as of September 30, 2010 are as follows:

			Fair Value Measurements Using Fair Value Hierarchy
	Fair value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Assets:

Cash equivalents	$	1,047	$	1,047	$	—	$	—
Current marketable securities – available for sale		20,395		20,395		—		—
Investment in Bakers		996		—		996		—
Note receivable – Bakers		4,009		—		—		4,009
Note receivable – Betsey Johnson		29,186		—		—		29,186
Long-term marketable securities – available for sale		103,179		103,179		—		—
Total assets	$	158,812	$	124,621	$	996	$	33,195

Liabilities:
Contingent consideration	$	12,000		—		—	$	12,000
Total liabilities	$	12,000		—		—	$	12,000

The Company’s financial assets subject to fair value measurements as of December 31, 2009 are as follows:

			Fair Value Measurements Using Fair Value Hierarchy
	Fair value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Cash equivalents	$	30,962	$	30,962		—		—
Current marketable securities – available for sale		17,971		17,971		—		—
Long-term marketable securities – available for sale		67,713		67,713		—		—
Total	$	116,646	$	116,646		—		—

Pursuant to the Debenture and Stock Purchase Agreement with Bakers (see Note F), the Company received 1,844,860 unregistered shares of Bakers common stock, which trades on the OTC Bulletin Board. These shares, which are thinly traded, were valued using the quoted price of similar registered shares of Bakers common stock adjusted for the effect of the transfer restriction, considering factors such as the nature and duration of the transfer restriction, the volatility of the stock and the risk free interest rate. The shares are included in deposits and other assets on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. For the note receivable due from Bakers (see note F), which was purchased at a substantial discount, the carrying value was determined to be the fair value. The note receivable due from Betsey Johnson (see Note F), which was in default on the date of purchase, was valued using the estimated fair value of the collateral. On October 5, 2010, the Company entered into a Restructuring Agreement with Betsey Johnson to effect a restructuring of the Loan. See Note S for a description of the restructuring of the Loan. No gains or losses resulting from the fair value measurement of financial assets were included in the Company’s earnings. The Company has recorded a liability for contingent consideration as a result of the February 10, 2010 acquisition of Big Buddha, Inc. (see Note S). The contingent consideration may be paid to the seller of Big Buddha based on the financial performance of Big Buddha for each of the twelve-month periods ending on March 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013. The fair value of the contingent payments was estimated using the present value of management’s projections of the financial results of Big Buddha during the earn-out period.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note I – Fair Value Measurement (continued)

In April 2009, the FASB issued additional guidance for estimating fair value in accordance with ASC Topic 820. The additional guidance addresses determining fair value when the volume and level of activity for an asset or liability have significantly decreased and identifying transactions that are not orderly. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material effect on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Company adopted the provisions of FASB ASC 825-10, “Financial Instruments” (“ASC 825-10”) on January 1, 2008. ASC 825-10 permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value that are not currently required to be measured at fair value. ASC 825-10 also establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to facilitate comparisons between entities that chose different measurement attributes for similar assets and liabilities. The Company has elected not to measure any eligible items at fair value.

Note J – Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying value of certain financial instruments such as accounts receivable, due from factors and accounts payable approximate their fair values due to their short-term nature of their underlying terms. The fair values of the financial instruments and investments are determined by reference to market data and other valuation techniques, as appropriate. Fair value of the note receivable – related party approximates its carrying value based upon its interest rate, which approximates current market interest rates.

Note K – Inventories

Inventories, which consist of finished goods on hand and in transit, are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out method) or market.

Note L – Revenue Recognition

The Company recognizes revenue on wholesale sales when products are shipped pursuant to its standard terms which are freight on board (“FOB”) warehouse or when products are delivered to the consolidators as per the terms of the customers’ purchase order. Sales reductions for anticipated discounts, allowances and other deductions are recognized during the period when sales are recorded. Customers retain the right to replacement of the product for poor quality or improper or short shipments, which have historically been immaterial. Retail sales are recognized when the payment is received from customers and are recorded net of returns. The Company also generates commission income acting as a buying agent by arranging to manufacture private label shoes to the specifications of its clients. The Company’s commission revenue includes partial recovery of its design, product and development costs for the services provided to certain suppliers in connection with the Company’s private label business. Commission revenue and product and development cost recoveries are recognized as earned when title to the product transfers from the manufacturer to the customer and collections are reasonably assured and are reported on a net basis after deducting related operating expenses.

The Company licenses its trademarks for use in connection with the manufacturing, marketing and sale of cold weather accessories, sunglasses, eyewear, outerwear, bedding hosiery, women’s fashion apparel and jewelry. The license agreements require the licensee to pay the Company a royalty and, in substantially all of the agreements, an advertising fee based on the higher of a minimum or a net sales percentage as defined in the various agreements. In addition, under the terms of retail selling agreements, most of the Company’s international distributors are required to pay the Company a royalty based on a percentage of net sales, in addition to a commission on the purchases of the Company’s products. Licensing revenue is recognized on the basis of net sales reported by the licensees and international distributors, or the minimum guaranteed royalties, if higher. In substantially all of the Company’s license agreements, the minimum guaranteed royalty is earned and payable on a quarterly basis.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note M – Taxes Collected From Customers

The Company accounts for certain taxes collected from its customers in accordance with the accounting guidance which permits companies to adopt a policy of presenting taxes in the income statement on either a gross basis (included in revenues and costs) or net basis (excluded from revenues). Taxes within the scope of the accounting guidance would include taxes that are imposed on a revenue transaction between a seller and a customer, for example, sales taxes, use taxes, value-added taxes and some types of excise taxes. The Company has consistently recorded all taxes on a net basis.

Note N – Sales Deductions

The Company supports retailers’ initiatives to maximize the sales of its products on the retail floor by subsidizing the co-op advertising programs of such retailers, providing them with inventory markdown allowances and participating in various other marketing initiatives of its major customers. In addition, the Company accepts returns for damaged product which is charged back to the responsible factory. Such expenses are reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income as deductions to sales. For the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2010, the deduction to sales for these expenses as a total dollar amount and as a percentage of gross sales was $10,331 or 6.3% and $25,515 or 6.2%, respectively, as compared to $6,593 or 5.6% and $20,185 or 6.7% for the comparable periods in 2009.

Note O – Cost of Sales

All costs incurred to bring finished products to the Company’s distribution center and, in the Retail segment, the costs to bring products to the Company’s stores, are included in the cost of sales line on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income. These include the cost of finished products, purchase commissions, letter of credit fees, brokerage fees, sample expenses, custom duty, inbound freight, royalty payments on licensed products, labels and product packaging. All warehouse and distribution costs related to the Wholesale segments and freight to customers, if any, are included in the operating expenses line item of the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income. The Company’s gross margins may not be comparable to those of other companies in the industry because some companies may include warehouse and distribution costs, as well as other costs excluded from cost of sales by the Company, as a component of cost of sales, while other companies report on the same basis as the Company and include them in operating expenses.

Note P – Income Taxes

The Company’s effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 was 40.2% and 38.3%, respectively. The increase in the effective income tax rate is substantially attributable to increases in state and local taxes, among other matters, including revisions of allocation formulas by some tax jurisdictions resulting in the Company having higher taxable income in those jurisdictions.

Note Q – Net Income Per Share of Common Stock

Basic income per share is based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted income per share reflects: (a) the potential dilution assuming shares of common stock were issued upon the exercise of outstanding in-the-money options and the proceeds thereof were used to purchase treasury stock at the average market price during the period, and (b) the vesting of granted nonvested restricted stock awards for which the assumed proceeds upon grant are deemed to be the amount of compensation cost attributable to future services and are not yet recognized using the treasury stock method, to the extent dilutive. For both the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2010, options to purchase 177,100 shares of the Company’s common stock have been excluded from the calculation because inclusion of such shares would be anti-dilutive as compared with options to purchase 32,000 and 136,000 shares of the Company’s common stock that have been excluded from the calculation for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note R – Stock-Based Compensation

In March 2006, the Board of Directors approved the Steven Madden, Ltd. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) under which nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, performance shares, restricted stock, other stock-based awards and performance-based cash awards may be granted to employees, consultants and non-employee directors. The stockholders approved the Plan on May 26, 2006. On May 25, 2007, the stockholders approved an amendment to the Plan to increase the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan from 1,800,000 to 2,325,000. On May 22, 2009, the stockholders approved a second amendment to the Plan that increased the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan to 6,096,000. The following table summarizes the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance under the Plan, the amount of stock-based awards issued (net of expired or cancelled) under the Plan and the number of shares of common stock available for the grant of stock-based awards under the Plan:

Common Stock authorized			6,096,000

Stock based awards, including restricted stock and stock options granted, net of expired or cancelled			3,460,000

Common Stock available for grant of stock based awards as of September 30, 2010			2,636,000

Total equity-based compensation for the three and nine months ended September 30 is as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2010		2009		2010		2009
Restricted stock	$	1,110	$	1,087	$	3,440	$	3,268
Stock options		1,177		472		2,523		1,064
Total	$	2,287	$	1,559	$	5,963	$	4,332

Equity-based compensation is included in operating expenses on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

Stock Options

Cash proceeds and intrinsic values related to total stock options exercised during both the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2010		2009		2010		2009
Proceeds from stock options exercised	$	485	$	345	$	2,398	$	1,556
Intrinsic value of stock options exercised	$	808	$	396	$	5,422	$	1,557

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010, approximately 51,000 and 316,000 options vested with a weighted average exercise price of $22.46 and $15.40, respectively. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, 21,000 and 120,000 options vested with a weighted average exercise price of $12.10 and $12.18, respectively. As of September 30, 2010, there were 1,559,000 unvested options with a total of $10,752 of unrecognized compensation cost and a weighted average vesting period of 3.1 years. As of September 30, 2009, there were 1,241,000 unvested options with a total of $5,376 of unrecognized compensation cost and a weighted average vesting period of 3.4 years.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note R – Stock-Based Compensation (continued)

The Company estimates the fair value of options granted using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which requires several assumptions. The expected term of the options represents the estimated period of time until exercise and is based on the historical experience of similar awards. Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company’s common stock. The risk free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant. With the exception of a special dividend paid in November of 2005 and 2006, the Company historically has not paid dividends and thus the expected dividend rate is assumed to be zero. The following weighted average assumptions were used for stock options granted:

	Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2010	2009
Expected volatility	47.2% to 52.4%	49.2% to 52.1%
Risk-free interest rate	1.08% to 2.16%	1.39% to 2.09%
Expected life (in years)	2.8 to 4.4	3.4 to 3.9
Expected dividend yield	None	None
Weighted average fair value	$ 12.68	$ 5.78

Activity relating to stock options granted under the Company’s plans during the nine months ended September 30, 2010 is as follows:

	Number of Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term		Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at January 1, 2010		1,615,000		$	13.68
Granted		621,000			33.40
Exercised		(231,000	)		10.81
Cancelled/Forfeited		(26,000	)		22.56

Outstanding at September 30, 2010		1,980,000		$	20.09		5.3	$	41,512

Exercisable at September 30, 2010		421,000		$	13.19		4.1	$	11,721

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note R – Stock-Based Compensation (continued)

Restricted Stock

The following table summarizes restricted stock activity during the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009:

	2010				2009
	Number of Shares		Weighted Average Fair Value at Grant Date		Number of Shares		Weighted Average Fair Value at Grant Date
Non-vested at January 1	447,000		$	20.97	358,000		$	29.53
Granted	118,000			30.50	23,000			22.19
Vested	(191,000	)		20.02	(131,000	)		29.58
Forfeited	(10,000	)		28.49	(1,000	)		34.05
Non-vested at September 30	363,000		$	22.01	249,000		$	28.79

As of September 30, 2010, there was $6,046 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock awards granted under the Plan. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 2.4 years. The Company determines the fair value of its restricted stock awards based on the market price of its common stock on the date of grant.

Note S – Acquisitions

Betsey Johnson intellectual property

On October 5, 2010, the Company acquired from Betsey Johnson, among other things, the Betsey Johnson® and Betseyville® trademarks through a series of transactions. First, on August 27, 2010, the Company purchased from various members of a loan syndicate their respective participations in a term loan in the aggregate outstanding principal amount of $48,750 (the “Loan”) made by the syndicate lenders to Betsey Johnson. The aggregate purchase price paid by the Company to the syndicate lenders for their participation in the Loan was $29,186, including transaction costs. The Loan was in default on the date of purchase. See Notes F and I for additional disclosure on the Loan. Then, on October 5, 2010, the Company entered into a Restructuring Agreement with Betsey Johnson to effect a restructuring of the Loan. Pursuant to the Restructuring Agreement, in consideration of the elimination of the total amounts owed under the Loan, the Company acquired (a) substantially all trademarks, brand names, logos, business names, patents, copyrights and other intellectual property, including the right to receive royalties and other income with respect to the Betsey Johnson® and related marks and brands, (b) certain intellectual property licenses and other contracts of Betsey Johnson (c) a lease for an outlet store located in Riverhead, NY, and (d) a number of Class B Preferred Shares of Betsey Johnson constituting 10% of the issued and outstanding shares of Betsey Johnson. The total purchase price of $29,186, which is currently included in the notes receivable line of the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, will be allocated to the various acquired assets upon the completion of the Company’s valuation of the fair value of these assets. Prior to its entry into the Restructuring Agreement with Betsey Johnson, the Company had licensed from Betsey Johnson the right to use the Betsey Johnson® and Betseyville® trademarks in connection with the sale and marketing of handbags, small leather goods, belts and umbrellas.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note S – Acquisitions (continued)

Big Buddha

On February 10, 2010, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of stock of privately held Big Buddha, Inc. (“Big Buddha”) from its sole stockholder (“Seller”). Founded in 2003, Big Buddha designs and markets fashion-forward handbags to specialty retailers and better department stores. Management believes that Big Buddha is a strategic fit for the Company. The acquisition was completed for consideration of $11,119 in cash, net of cash acquired, plus contingent payments pursuant to an earn-out agreement with the Seller. The earn-out agreement provides for potential payments to the Seller based on the financial performance of Big Buddha handbags for each of the twelve-month periods ending on March 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013. The fair value of the contingent payments was estimated using the present value of management’s projections of the financial results of Big Buddha during the earn-out period. As of September 30, 2010, the Company estimates the fair value of the contingent consideration to be $12,000.

The transaction was accounted for using the acquisition method required by GAAP. Accordingly, the assets and liabilities of Big Buddha were adjusted to their fair values, and the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the assets acquired, including identified intangible assets, was recorded as goodwill. The fair values assigned to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based on management’s estimates and assumptions, which are subject to change. The purchase price has been preliminarily allocated as follows:

Accounts receivable	$	668
Inventory		1,212
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		102
Trade name		4,100
Customer relationships		4,900
Non-compete agreement		450
Accounts payable		(171	)
Accrued expenses		(442	)
Total fair value excluding goodwill		10,819
Goodwill		12,300
Net assets acquired	$	23,119

The purchase price and related allocation are preliminary and may be revised as a result of adjustments made to the purchase price as additional information regarding assets and liabilities require. Contingent consideration classified as a liability will be remeasured at fair value at each reporting date, until the contingency is resolved, with changes recognized in earnings. The goodwill related to this transaction is expected to be deductible for tax purposes over 15 years.

The Company incurred approximately $430 in acquisition related costs applicable to the Big Buddha transaction during the nine months ended September 30, 2010. These expenses are included in operating expenses in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

The results of operations of Big Buddha have been included in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income from the date of the acquisition. Unaudited pro forma information related to this acquisition is not included, as the impact of this transaction is not material to the Company’s consolidated results.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note S – Acquisitions (continued)

Zone 88 and Shakedown Street

On July 8, 2009, the Company acquired certain of the assets constituting the Zone 88 and Shakedown Street (together “Zone 88”) lines of SML Brands, LLC, a subsidiary of Aimee Lynn, Inc. SML Brands designs, sources and markets primarily private label accessories and licensed brands, principally handbags, belts and small leather goods, for mass merchants and mid-tier retailers. The acquisition was completed for $1,348 in cash. The fair values assigned to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based on management’s estimates. The Company allocated $220 to current assets, $409 to the value of customer relationships, $841 to goodwill and $122 to liabilities assumed. The value of customer relationships is being amortized over ten years. The results of operations of Zone 88 have been included in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income from the date of the acquisition. Unaudited pro forma information related to this acquisition is not included, as the impact of this transaction is not material to the Company’s consolidated results.

Note T – Goodwill and Intangible Assets

The following is a summary of the carrying amount of goodwill by segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2010:

	Wholesale						Net Carrying
	Footwear		Accessories		Retail		Amount
Balance at January 1, 2010	$	1,547	$	17,265	$	5,501	$	24,313
Acquisition of Big Buddha		0		12,300		0		12,300
Balance at September 30, 2010	$	1,547	$	29,565	$	5,501	$	36,613

The following table details identifiable intangible assets as of September 30, 2010:

	Estimated Lives	Cost Basis		Accumulated Amortization		Net Carrying Amount
Trade name	6–10 years	$	4,300	$	432	$	3,868
Customer relationships	10 years		11,709		2,871		8,838
License agreements	3–6 years		5,600		4,833		767
Non-compete agreement	5 years		1,380		758		622
Other	3 years		14		14		—
		$	23,003	$	8,908	$	14,095

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note T – Goodwill and Intangible Assets (continued)

The estimated future amortization expense of purchased intangibles as of September 30, 2010 is as follows:

2010 (remaining three months)	$	734
2011		2,412
2012		1,673
2013		1,673
2014		1,673
Thereafter		5,930

	$	14,095

Note U – Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2010 includes unrealized gains on marketable securities of $1,090 and $1,746, and was $24,006 and $59,846, respectively. Comprehensive income for the comparable periods ended September 30, 2009 includes unrealized gains on marketable securities of $730 and $1,029, and was $18,561 and $37,581, respectively.

Note V – Commitments, Contingencies and Other

Legal proceedings:

(a)

As previously disclosed, on June 24, 2009, The Center For Environmental Health filed a lawsuit, Center for Environmental Health v. Lulu NYC, LLC, Steve Madden, Ltd., Steve Madden Retail, Inc., et al., Case No. RG09459448, in California Superior Court, Alameda County, against the Company and dozens of other California retailers and vendors of leather, vinyl and/or imitation leather handbags, belts and shoes alleging that the retailers and vendors failed to warn that certain of such products may expose California citizens to lead and lead compounds. The parties have finalized the substance of a consent judgment, the terms of which are not material to the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

(b)

As previously disclosed, on June 24, 2009, a class action lawsuit, Shahrzad Tahvilian, et al. v. Steve Madden Retail, Inc. and Steve Madden, Ltd., Case No. BC 414217, was filed in the Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County, against the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary alleging violations of California labor laws including, among other things, failure to provide mandated meal breaks and overtime pay to employees as required. The parties have agreed to resolve the dispute in private mediation and, on August 31, 2010, entered into a memorandum of understanding which remains subject to court approval. The memorandum of understanding is not expected to be submitted to the court for approval until early 2011. Based on the proposed settlement, the Company has increased its reserve for this claim from $1,000 to $2,750.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note V – Commitments, Contingencies and Other (continued)

(c)

As previously disclosed, on August 10, 2005, following the conclusion of an audit of the Company conducted by auditors for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“U.S. Customs”) during 2004 and 2005, U.S. Customs issued a report that asserts that certain commissions that the Company treated as “buying agents’ commissions” (which are non-dutiable) should be treated as “selling agents’ commissions” and hence are dutiable. Subsequently, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement notified the Company’s legal counsel that a formal investigation of the Company’s importing practices had been commenced as a result of the audit. In September of 2007, U.S. Customs notified the Company that it had finalized its assessment of the underpaid duties at $1,400. The Company, with the advice of legal counsel, evaluated the liability in the case, including additional duties, interest and penalties, and believed that it was not likely to exceed $3,045, and accordingly, a reserve for this amount was recorded as of December 31, 2009. The Company contested the conclusions of the U.S. Customs audit and filed a request for review and issuance of rulings thereon by U.S. Customs Headquarters, Office of Regulations and Rulings, under internal advice procedures. On September 20, 2010, the Company was advised by legal counsel that U.S. Customs had issued a ruling in the matter, concluding that the commissions paid by the Company pursuant to buying agreements entered into by the Company and one of its two buying agents under review were bona fide buying-agent commissions and, therefore, were non-dutiable. With respect to the second buying agent, U.S. Customs also ruled that beginning in February of 2002, commissions paid by the Company were bona fide buying agent commissions and, therefore, were non-dutiable. However, U.S. Customs found that the Company’s pre-2002 buying agreements with the second agent were legally insufficient to substantiate a buyer-buyer’s agent relationship between the Company and the agent and that commissions paid to the second agent under such buying agreements, in fact, were dutiable. Currently, the Company is reviewing the ruling, its consequences and the Company’s options with its legal counsel. On the basis of the U.S. Customs ruling, the Company has reevaluated the liability in the case and believes that it is not likely to exceed $1,248 and the reserve has been reduced from $3,045 to such amount as of September 30, 2010.

(d)

The Company has been named as a defendant in certain other lawsuits in the normal course of business. In the opinion of management, after consulting with legal counsel, the liabilities, if any, resulting from these matters should not have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations. It is the policy of management to disclose the amount or range of reasonably possible losses in excess of recorded amounts.

Note W – Operating Segment Information

The Company operates the following business segments: Wholesale Footwear, Wholesale Accessories, Retail, First Cost and Licensing. The Wholesale Footwear segment, through sales to department stores, mid-tier retailers and specialty stores worldwide, derives revenue from sales of branded and private label women’s, men’s, girls’ and children’s footwear. The Wholesale Accessories segment, which includes branded and private label handbags, belts and small leather goods, derives revenue from sales to department, mid-tier and specialty stores worldwide. The Retail segment, through the operation of Company owned retail stores and the Company’s website, derives revenue from sales of branded women’s, men’s and children’s footwear, accessories and licensed products to consumers. The First Cost segment represents activities of a subsidiary which earns commissions for serving as a buying agent and as a selling agent of footwear products to mass-market merchandisers, mid-tier department stores and other retailers with respect to their purchase of footwear. In the License segment, the Company licenses its Steve Madden® and Steven by Steve Madden® trademarks for use in connection with the manufacturing, marketing and sale of cold weather accessories, sunglasses, eyewear, outerwear, bedding, hosiery and women’s fashion apparel and jewelry.

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note W – Operating Segment Information (continued)

As of and three months ended,	Wholesale Footwear		Wholesale Accessories		Total Wholesale		Retail			First Cost		Licensing		Consolidated
September 30, 2010:
Net sales to external customers	$	123,251	$	29,801	$	153,052	$	31,066						$	184,118
Gross profit		48,362		11,095		59,457		18,051							77,508
Commissions and licensing fees - net		—		—		—		—		$	5,617	$	970		6,587
Income (loss) from operations		27,503		5,043		32,546		(1,745	)		5,617		970		37,388
Segment assets	$	302,842	$	72,078		374,920		42,964			12,130		—		430,014
Capital expenditures					$	337	$	711		$	—	$	—	$	1,048

September 30, 2009:
Net sales to external customers	$	92,205	$	19,752	$	111,957	$	28,181						$	140,138
Gross profit		38,979		7,141		46,120		15,556							61,676
Commissions and licensing fees - net		—		—		—		—		$	4,974	$	752		5,726
Income (loss) from operations		20,100		3,129		23,229		(641	)		4,974		752		28,314
Segment assets	$	219,140	$	42,139		261,279		46,452			8,559		—		316,290
Capital expenditures					$	328	$	410		$	—	$	—	$	738

As of and nine months ended,	Wholesale Footwear		Wholesale Accessories		Total Wholesale		Retail			First Cost		Licensing		Consolidated
September 30, 2010:
Net sales to external customers	$	310,176	$	75,161	$	385,337	$	89,053						$	474,390
Gross profit		123,929		29,308		153,237		53,057							206,294
Commissions and licensing fees - net		—		—		—		—		$	14,976	$	3,024		18,000
Income (loss) from operations		65,045		12,169		77,214		(914	)		14,976		3,024		94,300
Segment assets	$	302,842	$	72,078		374,920		42,964			12,130		—		430,014
Capital expenditures					$	814	$	1,466		$	—	$	—	$	2,280
September 30, 2009:

Net sales to external customers	$	231,610	$	49,829	$	281,439	$	82,600						$	364,039
Gross profit		93,126		16,451		109,577		45,149							154,726
Commissions and licensing fees - net		—		—		—		—		$	13,431	$	2,562		15,993
Income (loss) from operations		41,765		5,929		47,694		(5,697	)		13,431		2,562		57,990
Segment assets	$	219,140	$	42,139		261,279		46,452			8,559		—		316,290
Capital expenditures					$	753	$	1,650		$	—	$	—	$	2,403

STEVEN MADDEN, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements – Unaudited

September 30, 2010

($ in thousands except share and per share data)

Note W – Operating Segment Information (continued)

Revenues by geographic area for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30 are as follows:

	Three months ended September 30,				Nine months ended September 30,
	2010		2009		2010		2009
Domestic	$	172,334	$	134,206	$	448,993	$	347,758
International		11,784		5,932		25,397		16,281
Total	$	184,118	$	140,138	$	474,390	$	364,039

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the unaudited Financial Statements and Notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this Quarterly Report.

This Quarterly Report contains certain forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the federal securities laws. The events described in forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report may not occur. Generally forward-looking statements relate to business plans or strategies, projected or anticipated benefits or other consequences of our plans or strategies, projected or anticipated benefits from acquisitions to be made by us, or projections involving anticipated revenues, earnings or other aspects of our operating results. The words “may”, “will”, “expect”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “project”, “plan”, “intend”, “estimate”, and “continue”, and their opposites and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance or events and are subject to a number of uncertainties, risks and other influences, many of which are beyond our control, that may influence the accuracy of the statements and the projections upon which the statements are based. Factors that may affect our results include, but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009. Any one or more of these uncertainties, risks and other influences could materially affect our results of operations and whether forward-looking statements made by us ultimately prove to be accurate. Our actual results, performance and achievements could differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether from new information, future events or otherwise.

Overview:

($ in thousands, except retail sales data per square foot and earnings per share)

Steven Madden, Ltd. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) designs, sources, markets and retails fashion-forward footwear and accessories for women, men and children. We distribute products through department stores, specialty stores, luxury retailers, national chains, mass merchants, our retail stores and our e-commerce website throughout the United States as well as through special distribution arrangements in Canada, Europe, Central and South America, Australia and Asia. Our product line includes a broad range of updated styles which are designed to establish or capitalize on market trends, complemented by core products. We have established a reputation for our creative designs, popular styles and quality products at affordable price points.

On March 24, 2010, the Board of Directors declared a 3-for-2 stock split of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock, effected in the form of a stock dividend on the Company’s outstanding common stock. Stockholders of record at the close of business on April 20, 2010 received one additional share of Steven Madden Ltd. common stock for every two shares of common stock owned on this date. The additional shares were distributed on May 3, 2010. Stockholders received cash in lieu of any fractional shares of common stock they otherwise would have received in connection with the dividend. All share and per share data provided herein gives effect to this stock split, applied retroactively.

On October 5, 2010, the Company acquired from Betsey Johnson LLC (“Betsey Johnson”), among other things, the Betsey Johnson® and Betseyville® trademarks through a series of transactions. First, on August 27, 2010, we purchased from various members of a loan syndicate their respective participations in a term loan in the aggregate outstanding principal amount of $48,750 (the “Loan”) made by the syndicate lenders to Betsey Johnson. The Loan was originally made by the syndicate lenders to Betsey Johnson pursuant to a Loan and Security Agreement dated as of August 20, 2007 and provided for a maximum term loan amount of $50,000. The aggregate purchase price paid by the Company to the syndicate lenders for their participations in the Loan was $29,186 including transaction costs. The Loan, which was secured by a first priority security interest on substantially all assets of Betsey Johnson, was in default on the date of purchase. Then, on October 5, 2010, we entered into a Restructuring Agreement with Betsey Johnson. Pursuant to the Restructuring Agreement, in consideration of the elimination of all amounts owed under the Loan and Security Agreement, we acquired (i) the trademarks and other intellectual property of Betsey Johnson, including Betsey Johnson® and other related brand names, (ii) certain intellectual property licenses and (iii) a 10% equity interest in Betsey Johnson. Management believes that Betsey Johnson® is an iconic brand that offers meaningful growth opportunity for our business. Prior to its entry into the Restructuring Agreement, Betsey Johnson had licensed to the company the right to use the Betsey Johnson® and Betseyville® trademarks in connection with the sale and marketing of handbags, small leather goods and belts.

Regarding our financial results, we achieved the highest quarterly sales and earnings results in the Company’s history during the third quarter of 2010. Our consolidated net sales increased 31% to $184,118 in the third quarter of 2010 when compared to consolidated net sales of $140,138 achieved in the same period of last year. Net income increased 29% in the third quarter of this year to $22,916, compared with $17,831 in the same period last year. Diluted earnings per share for the third quarter of 2010 increased 27% to $0.81 per share on 28,235,000 diluted weighted average shares outstanding compared to $0.64 per share on 27,674,000 diluted weighted average shares outstanding in the third quarter of last year.

In our Retail Segment, same store sales (sales of those stores, including the e-commerce website, that were in operation throughout the third quarters of 2010 and 2009) increased 15.7%. As of September 30, 2010, we had 82 stores in operation, compared to 88 stores as of September 30, 2009. During the twelve months ended September 30, 2010, sales per square foot was $710 compared to $628 achieved in the same period of 2009.

As of September 30, 2010, our total inventory increased to $44,485 from $29,678 as of September 30, 2009, and our annualized inventory turnover improved to 9.7 in the third quarter of 2010 from 9.5 times in the third quarter of 2009. Our accounts receivable average days outstanding was 55 days in the third quarter of 2010 compared to 52 days in the third quarter of the previous year. As of September 30, 2010, we had $152,619 in cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, no short- or long-term debt, and total stockholders’ equity of $333,591.

The following tables set forth certain selected financial information relating to results of operations for the periods indicated:

Selected Financial Information

Three Months Ended

September 30,

($ in thousands)

	2010					2009
CONSOLIDATED:

Net sales	$	184,118		100	%	$	140,138		100	%
Cost of sales		106,610		58			78,462		56
Gross profit		77,508		42			61,676		44
Other operating income – net of expenses		6,587		4			5,726		4
Operating expenses		46,707		25			39,088		28
Income from operations		37,388		20			28,314		20
Interest and other income, net		1,201		1			488		1
Income before income taxes		38,589		21			28,802		21
Net income		22,916		12			17,831		13

By Segment:

WHOLESALE FOOTWEAR SEGMENT:

Net sales	$	123,251		100	%	$	92,205		100	%
Cost of sales		74,889		61			53,226		58
Gross profit		48,362		39			38,979		42
Operating expenses		20,859		17			18,879		20
Income from operations		27,503		22			20,100		22

WHOLESALE ACCESSORIES SEGMENT:

Net sales	$	29,801		100	%	$	19,752		100	%
Cost of sales		18,706		63			12,611		64
Gross profit		11,095		37			7,141		36
Operating expenses		6,052		20			4,012		20
Income from operations		5,043		17			3,129		16

RETAIL SEGMENT:

Net sales	$	31,066		100	%	$	28,181		100	%
Cost of sales		13,015		42			12,625		45
Gross profit		18,051		58			15,556		55
Operating expenses		19,796		64			16,197		57
Loss from operations		(1,745	)	(6	)		(641	)	(2	)
Number of stores		82					88

FIRST COST SEGMENT:

Other commission income – net of expenses	$	5,617		100	%	$	4,974		100	%

LICENSING SEGMENT:

Licensing income – net of expenses	$	970		100	%	$	752		100	%

Selected Financial Information

Nine Months Ended

September 30

($ in thousands)

	2010					2009
CONSOLIDATED:

Net sales	$	474,390		100	%	$	364,039		100	%
Cost of sales		268,096		57			209,313		57
Gross profit		206,294		43			154,726		43
Other operating income – net of expenses		18,000		4			15,993		4
Operating expenses		129,994		27			112,729		31
Income from operations		94,300		20			57,990		16
Interest and other income – net		2,927		1			1,252		0
Income before income taxes		97,227		20			59,242		16
Net income		58,100		12			36,552		10

By Segment:

WHOLESALE FOOTWEAR SEGMENT:

Net sales	$	310,176		100	%	$	231,610		100	%
Cost of sales		186,247		60			138,484		60
Gross profit		123,929		40			93,126		40
Operating expenses		58,884		19			51,361		22
Income from operations		65,045		21			41,765		18

WHOLESALE ACCESSORIES SEGMENT:

Net sales	$	75,161		100	%	$	49,829		100	%
Cost of sales		45,853		61			33,378		67
Gross profit		29,308		39			16,451		33
Operating expenses		17,139		23			10,522		21
Income from operations		12,169		16			5,929		12

RETAIL SEGMENT:

Net sales	$	89,053		100	%	$	82,600		100	%
Cost of sales		35,996		40			37,451		45
Gross profit		53,057		60			45,149		55
Operating expenses		53,973		61			50,846		62
Loss from operations		(914	)	(1	)		(5,697	)	(7	)
Number of stores		82					88

FIRST COST SEGMENT:

Other commission income – net of expenses	$	14,976		100	%	$	13,431		100	%

LICENSING SEGMENT:

Licensing income – net of expenses	$	3,024		100	%	$	2,562		100	%

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

($ in thousands)

Three Months Ended September 30, 2010 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2009

Consolidated:

Total net sales for the three months ended September 30, 2010 increased by 31% to $184,118 from $140,138 for the comparable period of 2009. Operating expenses increased in the third quarter of this year to $46,707 from $39,088 in the same period last year. As a percentage of sales, operating expenses decreased to 25.4% in the quarter ended September 30, 2010 compared to 27.9% for the same period of last year. Commission and licensing fee income increased to $6,587 in the third quarter of 2010 compared to $5,726 in the third quarter of 2009. In the third quarter of 2010, income from operations increased 32% to $37,388 and net income increased 29% to $22,916 compared to an income from operations of $28,314 and a net income of $17,831 in the same period last year.

Wholesale Footwear Segment:

Net sales from the Wholesale Footwear segment accounted for $123,251 or 67%, and $92,205 or 66% of our total net sales for the third quarters of 2010 and 2009, respectively. This 34% increase in net sales was driven by double-digit net sales increases in our Madden Girl, Madden Men’s, International, Kids and Elizabeth and James divisions. The net sales growth in Madden Girl is primarily due to the overwhelming success of boots and booties during the quarter. In our Steve Madden Men’s division, the sales increase is primarily due to the strong performance of the casual shoe and dress shoe categories during the quarter. In addition, our new men’s line, Madden, has realized a better than expected launch, and has contributed to the net sales growth in the Men’s division. The net sales increase in our International division was propelled by the division’s significant growth trend in Eastern Asia combined with net sales increases in Canada and Mexico as well as an expansion into new countries. Strong boot sales resulted in a net sales increase in our Kids division. Our Elizabeth and James division also experienced an increase in net sales driven by a deeper market penetration. In addition, our two new divisions, Material Girl and the expansion of our Big Buddha brand into shoes, both of which began shipping merchandise during the third quarter, contributed to the increase in net sales. These net sales increases were partially offset by a net sales decrease in the Steve Madden Women’s division.

Gross profit margin in the Wholesale Footwear segment decreased to 39.2% in the third quarter of this year from 42.3% in the same period last year. The decrease was partially due to a change in our product mix, including a growth of our international business, since our international business realizes a significantly lower gross profit margin than our other wholesale divisions. In addition, the gross profit margin decreased due to an increase in off-price sales related to a couple of product categories that did not perform up to expectation. In the third quarter of 2010, operating expenses increased to $20,859 from $18,879 in the third quarter last year. As a percentage of sales, operating expenses improved to 16.9% in the current quarter from 20.5% in the same period of last year primarily due to leverage on higher sales. Income from operations for the Wholesale Footwear Segment increased 37% to $27,503 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2010 compared to $20,100 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2009.

Wholesale Accessories Segment:

Net sales generated by the Wholesale Accessories segment accounted for $29,801 or 16%, and $19,752 or 14% of total Company net sales for the third quarters of 2010 and 2009, respectively. This 51% increase in net sales was driven by the sales contributed from our new Big Buddha division which we acquired in February of 2010. A double digit net sales increase in Steve Madden Handbags also contributed to the increase in net sales. Finally, a net sales increase in our private label Madden Zone business contributed to the net sales increase.

Gross profit margin in the Wholesale Accessories segment increased to 37.2% in the third quarter of this year from 36.2% in the same period last year, primarily due to the significantly higher gross profit margins achieved by our new Big Buddha division. In the third quarter of 2010, operating expenses increased to $6,052 compared to $4,012 in the prior year primarily due to the incremental costs related to our new Big Buddha division. Income from operations for the Wholesale Accessories segment increased to $5,043 for the quarter ended September 30, 2010, compared to $3,129 for the quarter ended September 30, 2009.

Retail Segment:

In the third quarter of 2010, net sales from the Retail Segment accounted for $31,066 or 17% of our total net sales compared to $28,181 or 20% in the same period last year. We opened two new stores and closed eight under-performing stores during the twelve months ended September 30, 2010. As a result, we had 82 retail stores as of September 30, 2010 compared to 88 stores as of September 30, 2009. The 82 stores currently in operation include 78 under the Steve Madden brand, three under the Steven brand and one e-commerce website. Comparable store sales (sales of those stores, including the e-commerce website, that were in operation throughout the third quarters of 2010 and 2009) increased 15.7% in the third quarter of this year. The net sales increase was primarily due to a decrease in promotional sales and the success of boots during the quarter. In the quarter ended September 30, 2010, gross margin increased 290 basis point to 58.1% from 55.2% in the same period of 2009, primarily due to a decrease in promotional selling. In the third quarter of 2010, operating expenses increased to $19,796 from $16,197 in the same period of last year. This increase is due partially to an increase in direct selling expense related to the increase in net sales as well as a charge for the preliminary settlement of a class action lawsuit of $1,750 (See Item 1 of Part II). Excluding the provision for the lawsuit, net income was $5 in the quarter ended September 30, 2010. Inclusive of the provision for the lawsuit, loss from operations for the Retail Segment was $1,745 in the third quarter of this year compared to a loss from operations of $641 for the same period in 2009.

First Cost Segment:

Income from operations in the First Cost Segment increased to $5,617 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2010, compared to $4,974 for the comparable period of 2009. This increase in income is due to a significant increase in private label business with several of our retail customers including Kohls, Target and Bakers. These increases were partially offset by the transition of one of the Company’s mass merchant customers from a “first cost” model to a “wholesale” model that was initiated pursuant to the customer’s request that the Company act as a selling agent (“wholesale” model) rather than a buying agent (“first cost” model) beginning in the first quarter of 2010.

Licensing Segment:

During the quarter ended September 30, 2010, licensing income increased to $970 from $752 in the same period of last year, primarily due to an increase in sales by several of our licensees.

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009

Consolidated:

Total net sales for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2010 increased by 30% to $474,390 from $364,039 for the comparable period of 2009. During the nine months ended September 30, 2010, gross margin increased to 43.5% compared to 42.5% in the same period of last year. Operating expenses increased in the nine months ended September 30, 2010 to $129,994 from $112,729 in the same period last year. Commission and licensing fee income increased to $18,000 in the first nine months of 2010 compared to $15,993 in the first nine months of 2009. During the nine months ended September 30, 2010, income from operations increased 63% to $94,300 and net income increased 59% to $58,100 compared to income from operations of $57,990 and a net income of $36,552 in the same period last year.

Wholesale Footwear Segment:

Net sales from the Wholesale Footwear segment accounted for $310,176 or 65% and $231,610 or 64% of our total net sales for the first nine months of 2010 and 2009, respectively. Our Madden Men’s, Madden Girl, International, Kids and Steven divisions all achieved significant double-digit increases in the period. In our Steve Madden Men’s division, the sales increase is primarily due to the strong performance of the dress and casual shoe categories during the period. In addition, our new men’s line, Madden, has realized a better than expected launch, and has contributed to the net sales growth in the Men’s division. The net sales growth in Madden Girl is due to the success of the dress shoes throughout the first nine months of 2010 combined with strong boot sales in the second and third quarters of the year. The net sales increase in our International division was propelled by the division’s significant growth trend in Eastern Asia and expansion into new countries. Strong selling of flats and boots resulted in a net sales increase in our Kids division. In our Steven division, net sales increased primarily due to strong sales of wedges during the second quarter and strong boot sales in the first and third quarters of the year. The Elizabeth and James division, our new brand that began shipping in the second quarter of 2009, continued its growth trend primarily with upper tier retailers such as Nordstrom, Saks and Neiman Marcus. In addition, our two new divisions, Material Girl and the expansion of our Big Buddha brand into shoes, both of which began shipping during the third quarter, contributed to the increase in net sales. These sales increases were partially offset by a decrease in sales in our Steve Madden Women’s division during the period.

Gross profit margin decreased 20 basis points to 40.0% in the first nine months of this year from 40.2% in the same period last year, primarily due to a change in our product mix, including growth of our international business during the third quarter, since our international business realizes a significantly lower gross profit margin than our other wholesale divisions. In the first nine months of 2010, operating expenses increased to $58,884 from $51,361 in the same period of 2009. As a percentage of sales, operating expenses improved to 18.9% in the first nine months of 2010 from 22.1% in the same period of last year primarily due to leverage on higher sales. Income from operations for the Wholesale Footwear Segment increased 56% to $65,045 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2010 compared to $41,765 for the same period of 2009.

Wholesale Accessories Segment:

Net sales generated by the Wholesale Accessories segment accounted for $75,161 or 16% and $49,829 or 14% of total Company net sales for the nine months ended September 30 2010 and 2009, respectively. The 51% growth in net sales in the Wholesale Accessories Segment is due to the sales contributed by our two recent acquisitions, Madden Zone, acquired in July of 2009, and Big Buddha, acquired in February of 2010. In addition, significant increases in sales of Steve Madden Handbags and private label belts were partially offset by a net sales decrease in our Betseyville® brand.

Gross profit margin in the Wholesale Accessories Segment increased 600 basis points to 39.0% in the first nine months of this year from 33.0% in the same period last year, primarily due to the significantly higher gross profit margins achieved by our new Big Buddha division combined with a change in the mix of products and lower markdown allowances. In the first nine months of 2010, operating expenses increased to $17,139 compared to $10,522 in the first nine months of 2009, primarily due to the incremental operating expenses associated with our new Madden Zone and Big Buddha divisions. Income from operations for the Wholesale Accessories segment more than doubled to $12,169 for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 compared to $5,929 for the same period of 2009.

Retail Segment:

In the first nine months of 2010 net sales from the Retail Segment accounted for $89,053 or 19% of our total net sales compared to $82,600 or 23% in the same period last year. We opened two new stores and closed eight under-performing stores during the twelve months ended September 30, 2010. As a result, we had 82 retail stores as of September 30, 2010 compared to 88 stores as of September 30, 2009. The 82 stores currently in operation include 78 under the Steve Madden brand, three under the Steven brand and one e-commerce website. Comparable store sales (sales of those stores, including the e-commerce website, that were open throughout the first nine months of 2010 and 2009) increased 12.2% in the first nine months of this year. The net sales increase was primarily due to a substantial increase in our average selling price as a result of a decrease in promotional sales and the success of wedges and dress shoes during the second quarter and strong boot sales during the first and third quarters of the year. The gross margin in the Retail Segment increased to 59.6% in the nine months ended September 30, 2010 from 54.7% in the first nine months of 2009 primarily due to the decrease in promotional selling. During the nine months ended September 30, 2010, operating expenses increased to $53,973 from $50,846 in the same period of last year. This increase is due partially to an increase in direct selling expense related to the increase in net sales as well as a one-time charge for the preliminary settlement of a class action lawsuit of $1,750 (see Item I of Part II for a discussion of the proposed settlement),. As a percentage of sales, operating expenses improve to 60.6% during the first nine months of 2010 compared to 61.6% during the same period of last year. Excluding the provision for the lawsuit, net income was $836 during the nine months ended September 30, 2010. Inclusive of the provision for the lawsuit, loss from operations for the Retail Segment was $914 in the first nine months of this year compared to a loss from operations of $5,697 for the same period in 2009.

First Cost Segment:

The First Cost Segment generated income from operations of $14,976 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2010, compared to $13,431 for the comparable period of 2009. This increase in income is due to a significant increase in private label business with several of our retail customers, including Kohls, Target and Bakers. These increases were partially offset by the transition of one of the Company’s mass merchant customers from a “first cost” model to a “wholesale” model that was initiated in the first quarter of 2010.

Licensing Segment:

During the nine months ended September 30, 2010, licensing income increased to $3,024 from $2,562 in the same period of last year, primarily due to an increase in sales by several of our licensees.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

($ in thousands)

On July 10, 2009, we entered into a collection agency agreement with Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. (“Rosenthal”) that became effective on September 15, 2009. The agreement provides us with a credit facility in the amount of $30,000, having a sub-limit of $15,000 on the aggregate face amount of letters of credit, at an interest rate that, at our election, is tied to either the prime rate or LIBOR. The agreement can be terminated by Rosenthal at any time with 60 days’ prior written notice, or by us at any time after the expiration of the first contract year with 60 days’ prior written notice. As of September 30, 2010, we have no borrowings against the credit facility.

On September 30, 2010, we had working capital of $132,377. We had cash and cash equivalents of $29,045, investments in marketable securities of $123,574 and we did not have any long term debt.

Management believes that based upon our current financial position and available cash and marketable securities, we will meet all of our financial commitments and operating needs for at least the next twelve months.

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

($ in thousands)

During the nine-month period ended September 30, 2010, net cash provided by operating activities was $42,392. The primary source of cash was the net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2010. An additional source of cash was provided by the increase of accounts payable and other accrued expenses of $26,534. The primary uses of cash were an increase in due from factor of $32,728, an increase in prepaid expenses, deposits and other assets of $4,216, an increase in inventory of $13,732 and an increase in accounts receivable of $2,121.

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

($ in thousands)

During the nine-month period ended September 30, 2010, we invested $54,341 in marketable securities and received $18,592 from the maturities and sales of securities. We paid $33,190 to acquire notes receivable from Bakers and Betsey Johnson. Subsequent to the end of the quarter, the note receivable from Betsy Johnson was eliminated in connection with a debt restructuring and asset purchase transaction which is described in Notes F and S to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Quarterly Report. We also paid $11,119 for the acquisition of Big Buddha in February of 2010 and we made capital expenditures of $2,280, principally for the one new store opened in the current period, the remodeling of existing stores and leasehold improvements to our showroom and for systems enhancements.

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

($ in thousands)

During the nine-month period ended September 30, 2010, we received $2,398 in cash and realized a tax benefit of $2,882 in connection with the exercise of stock options. We repurchased 141,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a total cost of $4,559.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

($ in thousands)

Our contractual obligations as of September 30, 2010 were as follows:

	Payment due by period
Contractual Obligations	Total		Remainder of 2010			2011-2012		2013-2014	2015 and after
Operating lease obligations	$	109,739	$	4,347	$	33,608	$	28,130	$	43,654
Purchase obligations		82,082		82,082		—		—		—
Contingent payment liability		12,000		—		7,500		4,500
Other long-term liabilities (future minimum royalty payments)		2,493		339		1,991		163		—
Total	$	206,314	$	86,768	$	43,099	$	32,793	$	43,654

At September 30, 2010, we had open letters of credit for the future purchase of inventory of approximately $3,585.

We have an employment agreement with Steven Madden, our Creative and Design Chief and a principal stockholder of the Company, which provides for an annual base salary of $600 subject to certain specified adjustments through December 31, 2019. The agreement also provides for annual bonuses based on EBITDA, revenue of any new business and royalty income over $2,000, plus an equity grant and a non-accountable expense allowance.

We have employment agreements with certain executive officers, which provide for the payment of compensation aggregating approximately $657 during the remaining three months of 2010, $1,713 in 2011 and $1,211 in 2012. In addition, some of the employment agreements provide for a discretionary bonus and some provide for incentive compensation based on various performance criteria as well as other benefits including stock options. Our Chief Operating Officer is entitled to deferred compensation calculated as a percentage of his base salary.

In connection with our acquisition of Big Buddha during the first fiscal quarter of 2010, we are subject to potential earn-out payments to the seller of Big Buddha, (currently operating the division as a division president) based on the annual performance of Big Buddha through March 31, 2013 (see note S of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements).

Ninety-nine percent (99%) of our products are produced overseas by unrelated foreign manufacturing companies, the majority of which are located in China, with a small percentage located in Brazil, Italy, India, Spain and Mexico. We have not entered into any long-term manufacturing or supply contracts with any of these foreign companies. We believe that a sufficient number of alternative sources exist outside of the United States for the manufacture of our products. We currently make approximately 99% of our purchases in U.S. dollars.

INFLATION

We do not believe that the price inflation experienced over the last few years in the United States has had a significant effect on the Company’s sales or profitability. Historically, we have minimalized the impact of product cost increases by improving operating efficiencies, changing suppliers and increasing prices. However, no assurance can be given that we will be able to offset any such inflationary cost increases in the future. We are currently seeing increases in our cost of goods from southern China averaging approximately 5 - 8%. We are working to mitigate this pressure by shifting some production to northern of China, where costs remain lower, and to a lesser extent, to other countries such as Mexico. We are also raising prices on select items with fresh materials or styling and, to date, have not seen resistance to these price increases. Putting this all together, the net impact of all these changes on gross margin was negligible in the third quarter of 2010, and we expect that to be the case in the near term as well.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

The Company has no off-balance sheet arrangements.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND THE USE OF ESTIMATES

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is based upon our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, sales and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Estimates by their nature are based on judgments and available information. Our estimates are made based upon historical factors, current circumstances and the experience and judgment of management. Assumptions and estimates are evaluated on an ongoing basis and we may employ outside experts to assist in evaluations. Therefore, actual results could materially differ from those estimates under different assumptions and conditions. Management believes the following critical accounting estimates are more significantly affected by judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements: allowance for bad debts, returns, and customer chargebacks; inventory reserves; valuation of intangible assets; litigation reserves and cost of sales.

Allowances for bad debts, returns and customer chargebacks. We provide reserves against our trade accounts receivables for future customer chargebacks, co-op advertising allowances, discounts, returns and other miscellaneous deductions that relate to the current period. The reserve against our non-factored trade receivables also includes estimated losses that may result from customers’ inability to pay. The amount of the reserve for bad debts, returns, discounts and compliance chargebacks are determined by analyzing aged receivables, current economic conditions, the prevailing retail environment and historical dilution levels for customers. We evaluate anticipated customer markdowns and advertising chargebacks by reviewing several performance indicators for our major customers. These performance indicators (which include inventory levels at the retail floors, sell through rates and gross margin levels) are analyzed by Management to estimate the amount of the anticipated customer allowance. Failure to correctly estimate the amount of the reserve could materially impact our results of operations and financial position.

Inventory valuation. Inventories are stated at lower of cost or market, on a first-in, first-out basis. We review inventory on a regular basis for excess and slow moving inventory. The review is based on an analysis of inventory on hand, prior sales, and expected net realizable value through future sales. The analysis includes a review of inventory quantities on hand at period-end in relation to year-to-date sales and projections for sales in the foreseeable future as well as subsequent sales. We consider quantities on hand in excess of estimated future sales to be at risk for market impairment. The net realizable value, or market value, is determined based on the estimate of sales prices of such inventory through off-price or discount store channels. The likelihood of any material inventory write-down is dependent primarily on the expectation of future consumer demand for our product. A misinterpretation or misunderstanding of future consumer demand for our product, the economy, or other failure to estimate correctly, in addition to abnormal weather patterns, could result in inventory valuation changes, compared to the valuation determined to be appropriate as of the balance sheet date.

Valuation of intangible assets. ASC Topic 350, “Intangible – Goodwill and Other”, requires that goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives no longer be amortized, but rather be tested for impairment at least annually. This accounting guidance also requires that intangible assets with finite lives be amortized over their respective lives to their estimated residual values, and reviewed for impairment in accordance with ASC Topic 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment” (“ASC Topic 360”). In accordance with ASC Topic 360, long-lived assets, such as property, equipment, leasehold improvements and goodwill subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset.

Litigation reserves. Estimated amounts for litigation claims that are probable and can be reasonably estimated are recorded as liabilities in our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The likelihood of a material change in these estimated reserves would be dependent on new claims as they may arise and the favorable or unfavorable events of a particular litigation. As additional information becomes available, management will assess the potential liability related to the pending litigation and revise their estimates. Such revisions in management’s estimates of a contingent liability could materially impact our results of operation and financial position.

Cost of sales. All costs incurred to bring finished products to our distribution center and, in the Retail segment, the costs to bring products to our stores, are included in the cost of sales line item on our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income. These include the cost of finished products, purchase commissions, letter of credit fees, brokerage fees, material and labor and related items, sample expenses, custom duty, inbound freight, royalty payments on licensed products, labels and product packaging. All warehouse and distribution costs are included in the operating expenses line item of our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. We classify shipping costs to customers, if any, as operating expense. Our gross profit margins may not be comparable to other companies in the industry because some companies may include warehouse and distribution as a component of cost of sales, while other companies report on the same basis as we do and include them in operating expenses.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

($ in thousands)

We do not engage in the trading of market risk sensitive instruments in the normal course of business. Our financing arrangements are subject to variable interest rates, primarily based on the prime rate and LIBOR. The terms of our collection agency agreements with Rosenthal & Rosenthal can be found in the Liquidity and Capital Resources section under Item 2 and in Note E to the notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Quarterly Report.

As of September 30, 2010, we held marketable securities valued at $123,574, which consist primarily of corporate and U.S. government and federal agency bonds. These investments are subject to interest rate risk and will decrease in value if market interest rates increase. We have the ability to hold these investments until maturity. In addition, any decline in interest rates would be expected to reduce our interest income.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

As required by Rule 13a-15(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the fiscal quarter covered by this Quarterly Report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) were, as of the end of the fiscal quarter covered by this Quarterly Report, effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

As required by Rule 13a-15(d) under the Exchange Act, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated our internal controls over financial reporting to determine whether any changes occurred during the quarter covered by this Quarterly Report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Based on that evaluation, there has been no such change during the quarter covered by this Quarterly Report.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

($ in thousands)

Certain legal proceedings in which we are involved are discussed in Note L to the Consolidated Financial Statements and included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009 and in Part I, Item 3 of that Annual Report as well as in Note V included in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part I of this Quarterly Report. The following discussion is limited to recent developments concerning certain of our legal proceedings and should be read in conjunction with our earlier SEC reports. Unless otherwise indicated, all proceedings discussed in those earlier reports, which are not indicated therein as having been dismissed remain outstanding.

As previously disclosed, on June 24, 2009, a class action lawsuit, Shahrzad Tahvilian, et al. v. Steve Madden Retail, Inc. and Steve Madden, Ltd., Case No. BC 414217, was filed in the Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County, against the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary alleging violations of California labor laws including, among other things, failure to provide mandated meal breaks and overtime pay to employees as required. The parties have agreed to resolve the dispute in private mediation and, on August 31, 2010, entered into a memorandum of understanding which remains subject to court approval. The memorandum of understanding is not expected to be submitted to the court for approval until early 2011. Based on the memorandum of understanding, the Company has increased its reserve for this claim from $1,000 to $2,750.

As previously disclosed, on August 10, 2005, following the conclusion of an audit of the Company conducted by auditors for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“U.S. Customs”) during 2004 and 2005, U.S. Customs issued a report that asserts that certain commissions that the Company treated as “buying agents’ commissions” (which are non-dutiable) should be treated as “selling agents’ commissions” and hence are dutiable. Subsequently, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement notified the Company’s legal counsel that a formal investigation of the Company’s importing practices had been commenced as a result of the audit. In September of 2007, U.S. Customs notified the Company that it had finalized its assessment of the underpaid duties at $1,400. The Company, with the advice of legal counsel, evaluated the liability in the case, including additional duties, interest and penalties, and believed that it was not likely to exceed $3,045, and accordingly, a reserve for this amount was recorded as of December 31, 2009. The Company contested the conclusions of the U.S. Customs audit and filed a request for review and issuance of rulings thereon by U.S. Customs Headquarters, Office of Regulations and Rulings, under internal advice procedures. On September 20, 2010, the Company was advised by legal counsel that U.S. Customs had issued a ruling in the matter, concluding that the commissions paid by the Company pursuant to buying agreements entered into by the Company and one of its two buying agents under review were bona fide buying-agent commissions and, therefore, were non-dutiable. With respect to the second buying agent, U.S. Customs also ruled that beginning in February of 2002, commission paid by the Company were bona fide buying agent commissions and, therefore, were non-dutiable. However, U.S. Customs found that the Company’s pre-2002 buying agreements with the second agent were legally insufficient to substantiate a buyer-buyer’s agent relationship between the Company and the agent and that commissions paid to the second agent under such buying agreements, in fact, were dutiable. Currently, the Company is reviewing the ruling, its consequences and the Company’s options with its legal counsel. On the basis of the U.S. Customs ruling, the Company has reevaluated the liability in the case and believes that it is not likely to exceed $1,248 and the reserve has been reduced from $3,045 to such amount as of September 30, 2010.

We have been named as a defendant in certain other lawsuits in the normal course of business. In the opinion of management, after consulting with legal counsel, the liabilities, if any, resulting from these matters should not have a material effect on the our financial condition or results of operations. It is the policy of management to disclose the amount or range of reasonably possible losses in excess of recorded amounts.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

2.1	Stock Purchase Agreement dated February 10, 2010 between Jeremy Bassan and the Company*1

2.2	Restructuring Agreement dated October 5, 2010 among Steven Madden, Ltd., BJ Acquisition LLC, BJ Agent LLC, Betsey Johnson LLC, Betsey Johnson (UK) Limited, Betsey Johnson Canada Ltd., BJ Vines, Inc., Betsey Johnson, Chantal Bacon, Castanea Family Investments, LLC, Castanea Family Holdings, LLC and Castanea Partners Fund III, L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 8, 2010)

10.1	Collection Agency Agreement dated July 10, 2009 between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and the Company*2

10.2	Purchase and Sale Agreement for Distressed Trades dated August 26, 2010 between BJ Acquisition LLC and Paradox Lending LLC*

31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

32.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

32.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

* Filed herewith.

1.	Agreement originally filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s current Report on Form 8-K dated February 10, 2010, and filed with the SEC on February 11, 2010, is refiled herewith to include all exhibits thereto.

2.	Agreement originally filed as Exhibits 10.1 through 10.6 to the Company’s current Report on Form 8-K dated July 10, 2009, and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2009, is refiled herewith to include all exhibits thereto.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report on Form 10-Q to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

DATE: November 9, 2010

	STEVEN MADDEN, LTD.

	By:	/s/ EDWARD R. ROSENFELD
		Edward R. Rosenfeld
		Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

	By:	/s/ ARVIND DHARIA
		Arvind Dharia
		Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer

Exhibit Index

Exhibit No.		Description

2.1		Stock Purchase Agreement dated February 10, 2010 between Jeremy Bassan and the Company*1

2.2		Restructuring Agreement dated October 5, 2010 among Steven Madden, Ltd., BJ Acquisition LLC, BJ Agent LLC, Betsey Johnson LLC, Betsey Johnson (UK) Limited, Betsey Johnson Canada Ltd., BJ Vines, Inc., Betsey Johnson, Chantal Bacon, Castanea Family Investments, LLC, Castanea Family Holdings, LLC and Castanea Partners Fund III, L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 8, 2010)

10.1		Collection Agency Agreement dated July 10, 2009 between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and the Company*2

10.2		Purchase and Sale Agreement for Distressed Trades dated August 26, 2010 between BJ Acquisition LLC and Paradox Lending LLC*

31.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

31.2		Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

32.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

32.2		Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

* Filed herewith.

1.	Agreement originally filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s current Report on Form 8-K dated February 10, 2010, and filed with the SEC on February 11, 2010, is refiled herewith to include all exhibits thereto.

2.	Agreement originally filed as Exhibits 10.1 through 10.6 to the Company’s current Report on Form 8-K dated July 10, 2009, and filed with the SEC on July 16, 2009, is refiled herewith to include all exhibits thereto.