In the enchanting realm where artistry meets gemstones, there exists a visionary force named Sonya Konstantinovsky. With a heart captivated by the rare brilliance, Sonya embarked on a journey that would lead to the creation of SONYA K., a jewelry brand that transcends the ordinary. Her story is one of passion, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of dreams that emerged even stronger in the face of adversity.

Sonya’s odyssey began with a serendipitous discovery on Instagram—an encounter with a green stone that ignited a profound love affair with Tsavorite. What started as a personal fascination blossomed into a transformative exploration of rare gemstones, unraveling a world of unique beauty she was determined to share. SONYA K. was born not just out of a desire to craft jewelry but to curate a collection that embodies elegance, individuality, and empowerment.

In the tapestry of Sonya’s narrative, every gemstone, every creation, and every triumph is a testament to the power of dreams, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring allure of timeless beauty. Join us on this inspiring journey into the luminous world of SONYA K.—where dreams crystallize into gems, and jewelry becomes a reflection of life’s most precious moments.

Your journey into the world of jewelry started with a deep love for Tsavorite. How did this love affair with gemstones inspire the creation of SONYA K., and what sets it apart from other jewelry brands?

In 2018, while scrolling on Instagram, I came across a green stone that immediately captured my heart. The gemstone dealer selling it informed me it was called tsavorite but couldn’t provide much more information. Intrigued, I began researching the stone, unveiling other unique gems in the process. It felt like I had stumbled upon a magical world of rare gemstones that I didn’t want to leave.

I began purchasing gemstones through Instagram, building a small collection of rare specimens. Though I desired to create jewelry, I lacked a clear vision of its appearance. With the onset of COVID, I put my dream on hold during the uncertain times. However, my perspective changed in December 2021 after contracting the virus. I realized life is unpredictable, prompting me to pursue my dream.

Seeking manufacturing in New York City to support the local community amid job losses, finding the right manufacturer proved challenging. Yet, once secured, everything started falling into place. I firmly believe in the notion: start walking, and the road will appear. Starting any venture involves a lot of uncertainty, but with faith, light gradually emerges.

What sets SONYA K. apart is our focus on crafting jewelry with rare gems, not limited to the three most popular colored stones—emerald, ruby, and sapphire. Tsavorite, for instance, is 300 times rarer than emerald. Introducing clients to truly unique gems distinguishes us.

We prioritize top-quality products, meticulously attending to every step of the creation process, from gem selection to craftsmanship. Our jewels are simple, elegant, and eye-catching. Versatile enough for jeans yet elevated for a red-carpet event, many pieces can be worn in multiple ways, reflecting our core values of versatility and wearability.

The Taylor necklace stands out, transforming from a tennis necklace to a more elevated look. Can you share the creative process behind designing versatile and wearable pieces that adapt to our fast-paced lives?

The Taylor necklace comprises a classic diamond tennis necklace base with a seamless lock for adding pendants. Wear it on its own as a timeless diamond necklace or with a colorful gemstone pendant. I envisioned a piece that transforms on the go—start your day with a simple diamond layer and, later, for a power lunch, business meeting, or dinner event, attach a pendant for a unique style. It’s a staple for any jewelry lover.

Ideal for travel, the Taylor necklace allows endless customization with various pendants, eliminating the need for multiple necklaces for different outfits. Similarly, I enjoy creating earrings with ear jackets, providing multiple ways to wear the same piece.

SONYA K. focuses on creating modern, timeless pieces. How do you balance the contemporary aesthetic with the timelessness of your designs to ensure they remain relevant in the ever-changing world of fashion?

I ensure our designs remain relevant by steering clear of chasing trends or fashion. Instead, I focus on creating minimalistic styles that are easy to wear, elegant, and unique. The gemstones I use are beautiful and unique, requiring minimal embellishment to stand out. They are akin to women who use makeup to highlight their natural beauty rather than obscure it.

Empowerment is a central theme in your design philosophy. How do you aim to empower individuals through your minimalistic designs and vibrant gemstones, encouraging them to wear their jewelry every day rather than saving it for special occasions?

I believe jewelry should be worn, not left to languish in a jewelry box. Gemstones, like sapphires, lose vibrancy if not exposed to light for extended periods. Your jewelry becomes despondent from neglect.

On challenging days, when you may want to retreat, a vibrant gemstone can serve as a reminder of strength. Whether it’s a green tsavorite or a bright Barbie-pink rubellite tourmaline, the gemstone smiles back, saying, “You’ve got this.” That’s how I want my jewelry to empower women—with vibrant, uplifting colors.

The idea of building a jewelry collection that portrays one’s unique style is intriguing. Can you share tips on how individuals can curate their collection to reflect their personality and evolve with their style over time?

Similar to building a wardrobe with staple items, a jewelry collection should include essentials. A classic Taylor diamond necklace is versatile with endless customization possibilities. Studs, hoops, and earrings with jackets offer varied looks. Rings are essential, and like a wardrobe, continuously build your collection over time.

In the fashion industry, some things are relevant in the moment, while others are timeless. My pieces fall into the timeless category, akin to an Hermès Birkin bag or a classic YSL blazer.

The vibrant colors of your gemstones are meant to brighten each day. How do you choose the gemstone colors for your pieces, and what emotions or experiences do you hope wearers derive from them?

Choosing gemstone colors involves encountering numerous stones daily. Some speak to you instantly, while others don’t. Vibrancy, cleanliness, and cut quality are crucial. I look for stones that excite me and will excite my customers, lending strength on gloomy days or heightening joy on great ones.

As a founder, how do you stay true to your brand’s vision while also incorporating new trends and technologies into your designs and business practices?

When designing new pieces, they must align with our core values rather than solely following trends. If they happen to align with a trend, that’s a bonus. As for technologies, I welcome any that contribute to creating the best product.

Your journey involved hands-on experience and self-learning about gemstones. What challenges did you face in establishing your brand, and how did those challenges shape the values and ethos of SONYA K.?

The most challenging aspect was manufacturing. It’s challenging to find individuals who excel in their craft, go the extra mile, and are genuinely good people. These challenges reinforced the importance of perseverance and excellence.

The concept of passing down jewelry to the next generation is beautiful. How do you envision SONYA K. becoming a part of family legacies, and what significance do you hope your pieces hold for future generations?

I am sentimental, and stories of individuals wearing their grandmother’s earrings to significant events move me. I envision my jewelry carrying similar significance. I hope my pieces become treasured heirlooms, connecting generations with shared memories.

Can you share a memorable story about a customer who felt a strong connection to one of your pieces, and how that experience reinforced your commitment to creating meaningful jewelry?

In May, a customer purchased a 7-carat, one-of-a-kind ring for his wife’s birthday. He had been searching for a top-quality tsavorite, and after viewing videos of the stone, he knew it was perfect. Sharing the passion for a stone with a client is profound, like translating the beauty of a gemstone into someone else’s language.

The intersection of finance and jewelry design is unique to your background. How do you think this combination enhances the value proposition for your customers, making them view their purchases as both aesthetic investments and financial ones?

I prioritize quality over quantity. Gems meeting specific criteria—untreated, top-color, well-cut—become appreciating assets. Besides financial value, owning such a gem means possessing a unique, appreciating asset.

Your emphasis on quality gemstones and craftsmanship is evident in your designs. How does your background in the financial field influence your approach to sourcing the best-quality gems, turning these pieces into not only adornments but also investments?

Observing rare and unique stones appreciating in value over time at jewelry auctions informs my approach. The emphasis on quality stems from a desire for gems that will command higher prices in the future.

Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of SONYA K., and what goals or aspirations do you have for the brand in the coming years?

I started the brand during COVID, purchasing colored gemstones through videos. I look forward to traveling to Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Tanzania to meet suppliers in person and witness mining operations. I aim to expand the color palette of gems, working with Paraiba, Chrysoberyl, and Vietnamese Spinel. Additionally, I have exciting projects for the brand and aspire to see SONYA K. represented on platforms like NET-A-PORTER and Moda Operandi.

Our readers love to travel; what destination is at the top of your bucket list?

Outside of gemstone travels, I’d love to visit Mauritius, Costa Rica, and the Amalfi coast for pleasure in the near future.

When lacking motivation, what’s your go-to quote?

I don’t lack motivation; if anything, I struggle with controlling the urge to bring all my ideas to life simultaneously.

Where can people follow you and find out more?

Follow us on Instagram, @sonyakjewelry, and visit our website, www.skfinejewelry.com.

A lesson I’ve learned since starting my brand is that hard work yields rewards. Taking a leap of faith resulted in a radical career change, and seven months after launching, we had our first trunk show at Nordstrom flagship. In November 2021, we released our holiday capsule, “Passion & Strength,” during a month-long trunk show at Bergdorf Goodman, reinforcing that passion shows in what you do.

In the dynamic world of fashion, where trends evolve and styles emerge, there are those rare individuals who embark on a mission that transcends the ephemeral nature of design. Simon Ngu, the visionary Founder and CEO of Each x Every, stands at the forefront of a revolution in footwear – a revolution that fuses the realms of comfort and style into a seamless, harmonious whole.

As we delve into this exclusive interview, we uncover the profound philosophy and unwavering commitment that fuel Simon’s journey. Each x Every is not merely a brand; it’s a manifesto challenging the norms of an industry that often demands a compromise between fashion and functionality.

Simon’s vision, articulated through the brand’s compelling philosophy, seeks to reshape the narrative of sizing diversity in the luxury and designer segments, where conformity has long overshadowed inclusivity.

With meticulous attention to detail and an acute understanding of the intricate dance between aesthetics and wearability, Simon Ngu has orchestrated a symphony of elegance and comfort in the world of footwear. As the custodian of a brand that champions not only individuality in style but also the fundamental right to perfectly fitting shoes, Simon shares insights into the origins of Each x Every and the challenges and triumphs that have defined its journey…

Each x Every was born out of a desire to seamlessly combine style and comfort. Could you share the defining moment or inspiration that led to the brand’s creation?

During my time as a young lawyer, I observed a curious trend among my female colleagues – a meticulously planned daily ritual of calculated footwear changes. It was not uncommon to witness them walking in the front door with their trainers, swapping to flats within the office, donning pumps for meetings and events, and even stashing ballet pumps in their purses for the commute home.

Their elaborate efforts to coordinate footwear with their outfits and daily activities intrigued me to explore the gap between designer footwear and the practicalities of wearing them.

This intricate dance between the practical demands of a corporate woman’s life and the desire for stylish footwear offered me a unique perspective. It was evident that there was a stark division between fashion and comfort, and lifestyle brands in their approach to comfort and wearability. The consumer was being forced to choose between style and comfort, and I wanted to create a product that could deliver both.

While aesthetics are paramount for a luxury brand, the design and construction techniques often lead to poorly fitting shoes that induce discomfort and pain. Each x Every emerged as a response to this dissonance. We launched the brand with the vision to create elegant and exquisite shoes described as beautiful but also offering perfect fits and exceptional comfort.

Throughout our process, we strive for the wearability of our shoes, incorporating cutting-edge comfort technology without compromising the inherent striking elegance and beauty of our footwear. With Each x Every, our goal is for women to no longer need to choose between fashion and comfort – they can have both.

To deliver on that mission we help women who really value both fashion and comfort to navigate footwear choices with tips and advice on buying to meet their busy lifestyles such as finding comfortable shoes for work and the ultimate comfortable heels for weddings.

The concept of infusing comfort into modern footwear is both groundbreaking and compelling. Could you elaborate on your approach to this challenge and the key principles that have guided your design process?

Achieving optimal comfort begins with one fundamental principle: ensuring the right fit. Unfortunately, the prevailing approach within the fashion footwear industry is to accommodate a single standard width fitting. This means that if your foot deviates slightly from the standard width, compromises to comfort are inevitable. At Each x Every, we embark on a different journey.

Our approach centers on achieving the perfect fit. To achieve this, we offer three distinct fittings, enabling us to cater to a diverse range of foot shapes and sizes. From this foundation, we employ intelligent methods to seamlessly integrate comfort technology into our shoe designs, resulting in footwear that not only looks stunning but is also a dream to wear.

What sets us apart from traditional comfort brands, however, is our ability to achieve fit and wearability without compromising the aesthetic allure of our silhouettes. We rigorously test our designs to ensure that, from a visual standpoint, there is no perceptible distinction between the different widths we offer. To be truly size-inclusive, we believe that our shoes need to look the same no matter the width.

Ultimately, the litmus test for us is simple: every shoe we craft, irrespective of width, must embody timeless beauty. At Each x Every, aesthetics and comfort coexist harmoniously, ensuring that every step you take is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence.

The dedication to offering an extensive range of sizes and widths is truly commendable. Could you elaborate on the intricate process involved in accommodating the unique shapes and sizes of individual feet?

The fashion and luxury footwear landscape currently offers shoes in a single-width fitting, often favoring a narrow width, which is generally thought to be more pleasing to the eye. However, this approach fails to cater to the diverse range of foot shapes and sizes that exist, particularly considering that the average British and American woman tends to have a slightly wider foot than her European counterparts. Recognising the pivotal role that fit plays in the overall footwear experience, Each x Every takes a different approach.

In order to deliver multiple width fittings, we needed to create our own fitting system. We started by selecting a standard width fitting that more accurately reflects the average British foot, ensuring a comfortable starting point. From there, we extend our range to include narrower and wider fittings on either side of the standard, meticulously designed to capture the nuances of various foot shapes. This comprehensive spectrum ensures that we are poised to accommodate a significant proportion of the British population.

To validate our sizing precision, we have undertaken an array of tests involving different foot shapes and sizes. This process has enabled us to fine-tune our offerings and ensure that each shoe is designed with thoughtful consideration of individual foot characteristics. Beyond size, we meticulously analyze strap placement, adjustable hole positioning, and other intricacies to facilitate breathability, flexibility, and comfort.

It’s important to note that a foot changes size during the day as it swells as a result of activity and heat. These intelligent design considerations allow our footwear to “grow” with your feet during the day.

For most women, finding the right fit can be confusing and quite often, a lengthy time-consuming process of trial and error. There are however, some really useful tips that no-one ever tells you that you can use to find the right fit so if you do find this challenging we’ve summed them up in our guide to buying shoes for narrow feet and advice on buying shoes for wide feet.

The concept of customization holds a significant place in Each x Every’s offerings. How does this personalization contribute to enhancing the overall comfort and style experience for your valued customers?

In a world where discerning consumers demand exclusivity in their apparel and footwear, Each x Every has redefined personalization on two pivotal fronts. We’re dedicated to ensuring that our customers receive the best shoe-wearing experience possible, and this begins with crafting footwear that fits perfectly with your foot’s unique contours. Unlike conventional luxury brands, our extensive array of sizes and widths ensures a bespoke fit that transcends the ordinary. This personalized foundation sets the stage for unparalleled comfort, addressing the very essence of luxury.

Yet, personalisation goes beyond fit. Our latest collection celebrates the power of individual style transformation. We understand that today’s luxury purchases are driven by the concept of “Cost Per Wear” – a considered calculation of how much wear will we get out of each of our purchases.

This insightful perspective has inspired us to empower our customers with the ability to modify their shoe silhouettes. Take our Sasso sandal, for instance – a single shoe offering up to five distinct styles – thanks to adjustable straps. This innovative approach redefines the equation, giving you more without having to acquire more.

Furthermore, we’ve woven a tapestry of elegance and versatility by introducing the captivating synergy of jewelry and footwear. Now, you can elevate your look by adorning your shoes with exquisite jewelry pieces, turning an elegant daywear shoe into a masterpiece suitable for prestigious events. This fusion encapsulates our unwavering dedication to multifaceted personalization, resonating with your unique preferences and fashion aspirations.

In essence, Each x Every is not just about offering a product – it’s about offering a lifestyle that embraces your individuality, upholds your comfort, and transforms your style. Experience a new dimension of personalisation with us.

Sustainability and Longevity, are crucial factors in today’s fashion industry, how does each address these aspects?

In today’s dynamic fashion landscape, the pursuit of sustainability and longevity resonates deeply with Each x Every’s ethos. While most brands are making commendable strides in developing environmentally friendly materials, we believe it’s equally crucial to address the fundamental issue of overconsumption that plagues the fashion industry.

Our perspective revolves around redefining the relationship between fit and aesthetics. The prevailing market norm of limited sizing options often compels consumers to compromise on comfort for style. This compromise inevitably leads to a shortened lifecycle for shoes, as they languish in storage due to discomfort.

We call these shoes, one-time wears. Our mission is to eliminate this compromise by creating shoes that marry impeccable fit with captivating aesthetics. The result? Footwear that is cherished and worn till its fullest potential, dramatically reducing waste.

Additionally, the allure of fast fashion’s disposable nature poses its own sustainability challenges. Here, versatility emerges as a solution. Each x Every’s commitment to adaptable design empowers consumers to transform their shoes, enhancing wearability and mitigating the urge to accumulate more pairs than they need.

By offering shoes that effortlessly transition between styles, we encourage a conscious and mindful approach to consumption that allows the consumer to feel like they’re not “giving up” on something.

Addressing longevity, we understand the precarious balance between material choices and durability. We prioritize quality by utilizing premium leather and partnering with skilled craftsmen in Italy and Portugal. This deliberate approach ensures that our shoes endure, gracefully transcending fleeting trends and making a lasting impact on both style and the environment.

In essence, Each x Every seeks to revolutionize the very essence of sustainable fashion by marrying comfort, style, and durability. Through thoughtful design and a commitment to fostering enduring relationships with our products, we aspire to shape a future where fashion contributes positively to both individual lives and the planet we call home.

The blend of comfort and style is a unique selling point for Each x Every. Can you share some stories or testimonials from customers who have experienced the brand’s transformative footwear?

One of our earliest customers stumbled upon Each x Every through a simple Google search while in pursuit of the perfect pair of heels for an upcoming wedding. What made her search uniquely difficult was looking for elegantly beautiful shoes in a size 9 wide. The lack of sizing diversity from high street and luxury brands offered slim pickings and, due to her size, she was often left feeling excluded from the fashion industry’s narrative of beauty and style.

In her quest, she discovered the Tie Bluebell Mule from Each x Every, a captivating pair that harmoniously blended sophistication and comfort. This mule became the missing puzzle piece to her wedding guest ensemble, filling a gap that had long evaded her. This experience was a transformative moment for her, as she found herself seamlessly included in the world of fashion choices that was rarely ever inclusive.

This story remains etched in our brand’s journey, reminding us of our mission’s impact. To provide a meticulously crafted shoe that not only reflects timeless elegance but also champions individuality and comfort is a source of immense pride. Our ability to grant her the joy of choice, self-expression, and a beautifully fitting pair of shoes serves as a testament to the transformative power of Each x Every’s footwear.

In the fast-paced and competitive fashion industry, Each x Every distinguishes itself by embracing a mission-driven approach. As a brand owner, I believe it’s my responsibility to offer something the world truly needs, not just another version of a shoe that looks a little different.

Our foundation is built on a commitment to solving real problems. We recognise that a significant portion of the population remains underserved, often excluded by luxury and designer brands due to the size of their feet. This forces customers to make a difficult choice between stylish shoes and their dream footwear, often enduring discomfort and pain because of improper fit.

At Each x Every, we are dedicated to championing size diversity. We firmly believe that whether you have wide feet or narrow feet” should not limit your access to high-quality, beautifully crafted shoes. Crafting footwear that accommodates various foot shapes and sizes is not just a goal; it’s a source of immense satisfaction for us.

“It’s not just women with narrower or wider feet that are marginalised by luxury and designer brands but also those with often hidden foot disabilities or “odd” foot shapes. There is a growing population of women who have bunions, plantar fasciitis, high arches and swollen feet (especially during or after pregnancy) to name a few and who feel excluded from wearing beautiful, glamorous, elegant shoes offered by these exclusive brands.”

From a design perspective, our focus is clear: we aim to provide more people with a luxury experience through exquisite shoes that surpass what the current market offers. Our dedication to addressing this need and our commitment to inclusivity are at the core of our values, guiding us in a competitive industry where staying true to our mission is paramount.

Empowerment is often linked to the shoes we wear. In what ways does Each x Every strive to empower women through its comfortable and stylish offerings?

Empowerment lies at the heart of our mission at Each x Every, and it begins with the profound sensation of wearing shoes you adore. When we talk about shoes, it’s often that initial spark of desire, that visceral feeling upon first seeing them on a store shelf or onscreen. It’s challenging to put into words, but we all recognise that powerful allure.

However, one of the most disheartening experiences is when you finally put on those coveted shoes, and they simply don’t fit or prove to be incredibly uncomfortable. Many times, we’re left disheartened, feeling that even though we adore a brand or a specific shoe style, it just doesn’t work for us. In such cases, we might attempt to push through the initial hesitation and purchase them anyway, hoping they’ll become comfortable over time, but we end up with sore and unhappy feet.

Empowerment, for us, transcends the aesthetics of the shoe; it’s about how you feel when you wear them. If we can be the brand that creates products people fall in love with and feel confident wearing because our shoes seamlessly support their lifestyles, then that encapsulates our holistic definition of empowerment in the realm of footwear.

All too often, we witness beautiful shoes worn briefly, only to be kicked off midway through an event or dinner, and replaced by more comfortable options. While this makes sense from a functional standpoint, it sends a clear message that we adore being seen in certain shoes, but they detract from our overall life experience and what we can comfortably do in those moments. Our goal is to bridge these two narratives and experiences so that what you see and fall in love with aligns seamlessly with your experience of being in those shoes.

For us, true empowerment emerges when you’re not just enamored with the appearance of your shoes but also when they enhance your overall experience and confidence, enabling you to fully embrace life in the shoes you love.

Each x Every has a compelling brand philosophy. What legacy does the brand hope to leave behind, and what do you envision for the future of fashion with a focus on comfort and style co-existing without compromise?

Our brand philosophy revolves around influencing the fashion footwear market to embrace sizing diversity. We believe that we’ll have made significant strides if we can inspire more brands, especially those in the luxury and designer segments, to offer consumers a wider array of sizes and widths. In many countries, including the UK, we meticulously measure children’s feet and produce shoes in different widths to ensure a proper fit. It’s perplexing that this approach stops when we reach adulthood.

Within our vibrant community, we consistently encounter individuals with varying foot sizes and shapes. The limitation of adhering to a single predefined foot shape or width set by a brand is inherently exclusionary. Our goal is to encourage the footwear market to take decisive steps towards providing more sizing options and widths, similar to what the fashion industry has achieved with plus and petite sizes. By doing so, we can offer products that cater not only to our fashion desires but also to our foot health, a crucial aspect that’s frequently overlooked.

It’s essential to recognize the long-term repercussions of wearing ill-fitting shoes or those that cause discomfort. Over time, these choices can lead to severe foot health issues, ranging from bunions to neuroses. Hence, our mission is twofold. Firstly, we advocate for shoe companies to prioritize designing their products with versatility in mind. We firmly believe in breaking free from the unsustainable consumer behavior of purchasing shoes, wearing them only a few times, and then discarding them. While addressing the impact of fast fashion on consumer mentality is crucial, it’s equally important for footwear brands like ours to rethink shoe design, aligning it more closely with our consumers’ diverse needs. This shift is something we aspire to influence and instil in future generations.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?

I’ve been exceptionally fortunate in my early life to explore some incredible destinations. I’ve backpacked through Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe, split my time between living in Australia and Europe, and experienced awe-inspiring moments, such as reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and spending three months as a fly fishing guide in Alaska. As a result, I’ve had the opportunity to indulge in numerous outdoor adventures, which truly resonate with my heart and soul.

However, there’s one destination that has remained on my bucket list: Canada. As a true lover of the outdoors, it’s a place that encompasses so many elements I hold dear in my travels. Next stop, Vancouver.

Visit our website www.eachxevery.com and explore our social pages on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest @eachxevery. Connect with Simon Ngu and Each x Every on LinkedIn.

And, stay tuned for exciting updates and happenings. Keep a lookout for us online as we continue to redefine the intersection of comfort and style in the world of fashion.

Embark on a journey through the vibrant world of Marqueeta Hughes, a visionary designer whose footsteps resonate with empowerment and authenticity.

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the transformative moments that shaped Marqueeta’s odyssey from overcoming childhood challenges to establishing her own footwear label.

With a passion for fashion, an unwavering commitment to individuality, and a global perspective cultivated in the diverse landscapes of London and Dubai, Marqueeta shares the compelling narrative of her brand, where each step is not just a stride but a declaration of self-affirmation.

Join us as we unravel the layers of inspiration, resilience, and creativity that define Marqueeta Hughes’ extraordinary journey in the world of fashion…

Could you please share the pivotal moments in your life and career that led you to establish your own footwear label?

I have always had a passion for fashion, especially shoes, but my relationship with it was a love-hate one. Growing up, I faced teasing about my feet, leading me to wear shoes that were too small and avoid certain styles and colors.

A crucial moment occurred during my undergraduate years when I couldn’t find a single pair of shoes that made me feel good in a footwear store. It was then that I decided to channel my energy into building my own footwear brand, using every class to hone my skills. Post-graduation, each career move, course, and relocation was a deliberate step towards creating what I envisioned as the Apple of Footwear.

Your educational background includes a Fashion Marketing and Management Degree from the Art Institute of California and an MBA from Hult International Business School in London. How have these experiences shaped your approach to designing and running your own fashion brand?

My undergraduate studies were instrumental in allowing me to explore every facet of the fashion industry, from design to store operations. As I delved deeper into building my business, I felt the need for a solid business foundation, which prompted me to pursue an MBA.

This decision not only provided me with a sense of security but also opened doors for travel, inspiration, and networking. I realized that even major companies grapple with uncertainties, reinforcing my belief in building my brand step by step. My education taught me to begin with a product meeting essential needs – beauty, functionality, and quality.

Marqueeta, your first collection is deeply personal, inspired by your move abroad and the decision to live life authentically. How does this collection reflect your journey, and what message do you hope it conveys to women worldwide?

Considering a career in law over fashion for its perceived respectability, I struggled with the tension between conformity and rebellion. Eventually choosing fashion, I opted for Marketing and Management over Design. When I moved abroad to study and launch my business, I had to trust my instincts and live the life I desired.

My first collection, the “I am Collection,” names each shoe after my favorite affirmations – “I am enough,” “I am confident,” “I am magic,” and “I am unique.” I want women worldwide to embrace these affirmations with every step they take.

Living between London and Dubai must have exposed you to diverse cultural influences. How do these experiences manifest in your designs, and how do you incorporate a global perspective into your brand?

London and Dubai, with their rich cultural influences and striking architecture, inspire subtle design elements and color choices in my work. For instance, I draw inspiration from the lines of buildings and incorporate meaningful colours, such as the green from the Nigerian flag in my upcoming collection, symbolizing wealth. My intentional choice to study in Dubai and London reflects in my brand’s global accessibility – designed anywhere, shipped almost anywhere, and crafted for all women.

Your brand is not just about footwear; it’s a symbol of empowerment for women. Can you elaborate on how you envision your label inspiring women to break free from societal expectations and embrace their individuality?

While still in the building stage, my goal is to create a community of empowered women who feel a sense of strength when they wear my shoes. I am mindful of comfort and functionality in my designs, steering clear of the pain threshold seen in many beautiful yet uncomfortable shoes. My brand aims to adorn women without suggesting they need my products to feel enough. Future plans include offering custom-made designs and accessories, further enhancing individuality.

In a world where fashion often sets rigid standards, your brand stands out for encouraging women to drop societal labels. How do you navigate the balance between staying relevant in the industry while promoting individuality and self-expression?

Extensive market research and conversations with women have revealed that, while many love fashion, they don’t consider themselves fashionistas. To strike a balance, I infuse my minimalist/modern design aesthetic with trending elements, typically expressed through colour.

I avoid mass production, limiting the number of produced pairs, and implement demand-based production. This approach ensures that designs go into production based on pre-orders and customer feedback, preventing decision fatigue and aligning with the ethos of individual expression.

Your love for art, fashion, and travel is evident in your work. How do these passions come together in your designs, and how do they contribute to the overall aesthetic of your brand?

At this point in my life, my brand is all about vibes. I am building it around the lifestyle I love – art, fashion, and travel. These elements manifest in various ways, whether through imagery, fabric choices, or colors. The first collection served as a live test, and the next one will more prominently reflect these passions in the overall aesthetic.

As a female entrepreneur in the fashion industry, what challenges have you faced, and how have these experiences influenced the mission and values of your brand?

The fashion industry can be exclusive, fostering an environment of “you can’t sit with us.” Rejecting this attitude, I prioritize uniqueness and authenticity, taking a different path by avoiding traditional “paying dues” routes.

Bootstrapping and crowdfunding my business, I faced capital challenges, and at times, gender biases led to a lack of initial support. In response, I aim to collaborate and hire women, emphasising inclusivity. My vision includes building a foundation to support women creatives, providing education and resources for aspiring entrepreneurs.

The House of Coco audience comprises trendsetters and fashion enthusiasts. How do you ensure that your designs resonate with your personal journey and also appeal to the tastes of a diverse and discerning audience?

My primary focus is sharing my passion for fashion and shoes. While staying informed about trends and customer preferences, my mission is to express myself authentically. By doing so, I attract those who resonate with my love, passion, and knowledge. Designing shoes is my true calling, and the magnetic pull of my authenticity draws in those who connect with my ministry of expression.

The name “Marqueeta Hughes” carries a strong personal brand. How do you cultivate and maintain authenticity in both your personal and professional life, and how does this authenticity translate into your designs?

Initially, I attempted to separate my personal identity from the brand, using a different name. However, feedback highlighted the uniqueness and sophistication of my own name, akin to iconic brands like Chanel and YSL.

Realising that I am the secret sauce, I embraced authenticity by intertwining my personal and professional identities. People connect with the real me, and messages of relatability keep me going. As a naturally private individual, I’ve learned to share my authentic self in a way that aligns with my well-being.

In the competitive world of fashion, sustainability is gaining importance. How does your brand contribute to sustainable practices, and how do you envision the role of sustainability evolving in the fashion industry?

Sustainability is ingrained in our brand DNA, evident in our small collections and demand-based production. Full traceability of our supply chain ensures transparency in manufacturing. While acknowledging that certain sustainable practices can be costly for a small brand, we plan to invest in recycled materials, trims, and packaging as capital grows. The goal is to align with evolving sustainability standards in the fashion industry.

As a designer who encourages women to embrace their true selves, what role do you see fashion playing in promoting inclusivity and diversity, and how does your brand contribute to this movement?

Fashion’s role in promoting inclusivity and diversity goes beyond token gestures. True progress involves inclusivity and diversity at all levels of influence and opportunity within the industry. My brand contributes by incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion principles throughout the creative process, hiring practices, messaging, and collaborations. This commitment aims to foster a more inclusive fashion landscape.

Looking ahead, what aspirations do you have for the future of your brand, and how do you hope to continue inspiring women to live boldly and authentically through your designs?

This is just the beginning; I am building the Apple of shoes. Future plans involve physical stores designed as unique experiences, incorporating technology for improved fit and customer experiences. Collaboration with other artists and designers will create a community or tribe, expanding my product offerings into a lifestyle brand.

Above all, I hope to inspire women by showcasing that, despite challenges, pursuing dreams leads to success. My journey from facing obstacles to building a dream brand in Dubai serves as a testament to the power of bold, authentic living.

Our readers love to travel. What destination is at the top of your bucket list?

South Africa.

Where can people follow you and find out more?

Follow Marqueeta for her personal updates @iammarqueetahughes and the brand Page for everything else @marqueetahughes Website: www.marqueetahughes.com