The founding story of Feliz Shoes
In 2007, my world was forever changed when I lost my beloved mother. It was a moment of unimaginable grief, one that stopped time in its tracks. Everything felt different.
I had been working as a designer for years, and I had seen the living and working environments of the hardworking people that put together the shoes, bags and clothes we wear every day. I became aware of the footprint we leave behind when we produce (and buy) fast fashion. I thought about the environmental, social and cultural implications of the fashion industry as it existed then, and still largely today.
After the tears dried, I made a pact with myself—a promise to do everything differently.
How it all started
A year later, in the autumn of 2008, that promise began to take shape. I started my first collaborations with a group of incredible artisan shoemakers in Spain. These talented individuals, who were passionate about their craft, became the foundation of what would eventually become Feliz Shoes. Seeing their skill and dedication to the art of shoemaking, I knew that I had found my path.
As the years passed, my vision expanded. I began working with artisans in Portugal as well, continuing to focus on building relationships with makers who shared my values: people who take pride in their work, who craft with love, and who value the artistry and tradition of European shoemaking. These artisans are still the building blocks of Feliz today, and their craftsmanship is the heart of every product we create.
At Feliz, we believe in the integrity of European craftsmanship. Our shoes are made with high-quality European leather, and we are proud to work with materials that speak to the authenticity and sustainability of the region. We are also committed to reducing our environmental footprint, continuously seeking ways to improve our processes and materials without compromising the quality of the final product.
Some of our first designs, now considered Feliz classics, include:
Our core values
One of the core values of Feliz is creating a working environment where human norms and values are never compromised. The artisans who craft our shoes are paid fairly for their work, ensuring that they are rewarded for the time and effort they put into every pair. It’s a transparent process—I travel to the workshops and studios where my designs come to life, hand-picking the leather, and meeting with the makers who bring these products into the world. This hands-on, collaborative approach allows me to ensure that every step of the production process is aligned with my values of quality, fairness, and respect.
The Feliz collection is a reflection of this commitment: simple, clean lines paired with pure, natural materials like European leather and wool felt. Whether it’s an espadrille, a wedge, a boot, or a hat, each piece is designed to evoke a boho-chic, feminine elegance. Our designs are timeless, versatile, and always crafted with a deep respect for the artisanal culture and the environment.
And the story continues...
Feliz is not just about me. It’s about the dedicated group of artisans who make our vision a reality. Our brand is the result of years of hard work, collaboration, and a shared belief in the beauty and value of craftsmanship. And each product we create is made with you in mind—someone who appreciates quality, sustainability, and authenticity.
So, if you’re looking to make a change, to do things differently, I invite you to make that choice with Feliz. Choose authenticity. Choose craftsmanship. Choose something made with heart.
Choose Feliz.