Meet Erika Carrero

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Erika Carrero. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Erika, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What do you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry? Any stories or anecdotes that illustrate why this matters?

Thank you for the introduction! I’m thrilled to share my journey and the story behind Elizée.

One of the exciting shifts happening in the footwear industry is the rise of female entrepreneurs who are redefining how women’s shoes are designed and manufactured. Traditionally, many luxury footwear brands have been led by men, who might not fully understand the unique needs and challenges women face when wearing high heels. As female entrepreneurs, we bring a fresh perspective that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing style. This balance is crucial because how we feel in our shoes can significantly impact our confidence and the way we carry ourselves.

For example, during my time in the corporate world, I experienced firsthand the discomfort that often comes with wearing high heels all day. This inspired me to create Elizée, a brand dedicated to offering luxury shoes that are both beautiful and comfortable. It was about understanding the nuances of design and comfort from a woman’s perspective, something that has been overlooked for too long. By integrating advanced comfort technology and working closely with Italian artisans, we’ve managed to create shoes that empower women to move confidently and comfortably throughout their day.

The presence of female-led brands in the luxury footwear market is not only filling a significant gap but also pushing the industry forward. We are challenging traditional norms and proving that luxury and comfort can coexist. Our efforts are reshaping the landscape, making it more inclusive and responsive to the needs of modern women. It’s an exciting time to be part of this movement, and I’m proud to contribute to an industry that is evolving to better serve its consumers.

Erika, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Absolutely. I’m Erika Carrero, the Founder, Creative Director, and CEO of Elizée. My professional background is in operational finance, where I worked as an executive in Silicon Valley. Despite my career in tech, I always had a passion for fashion, heavily influenced by my always gorgeous and stylish mother and grandmother. My journey into the footwear industry started out of necessity—I couldn’t find high heels that offered both style and comfort, so I decided to create them myself.

At Elizée, we offer luxury high heels that are handcrafted in Italy, combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative comfort technology. Our shoes feature a unique triple-layered cushioned insole that provides exceptional shock absorption and lasting comfort. This design addresses a significant gap in the market, solving the problem of discomfort typically associated with high heels.

What sets us apart is our commitment to not compromising on either style or comfort. We use the finest Italian leathers and advanced materials to ensure every pair of shoes is both beautiful and comfortable. I’m most proud of the feedback we receive from our customers, who often tell us how our shoes have transformed their lives, giving them the confidence to wear heels all day without pain.

For potential clients, I want them to know that Elizée is dedicated to empowering women. Our shoes are designed with the modern, dynamic woman in mind. We believe that when you feel your best, you can achieve anything, and our mission is to provide footwear that supports that vision.

Have you ever had to pivot?

One significant pivot in my career was transitioning from my role as a CFO in the tech industry to founding Elizée. After the successful acquisition of the tech company I was working for, I had the opportunity to either continue my career in tech or pursue my passion for fashion full-time. It was a daunting decision, but I chose to follow my dream and focus on Elizée.

This transition happened progressively. I started by taking time off while still working in finance to learn more about the footwear industry. I was determined to learn as much as I could about the footwear industry, from design to manufacturing. I attended courses at the Arsutoria School in Milan and traveled extensively to understand the nuances of luxury shoe production. My business network allowed me to connect with experts in the field, including the shoemaker for Queen Elizabeth II. My family supported this decision wholeheartedly, and my peers and colleagues often remarked how well this new venture fit my background and personality.

This pivot was not just a career change; it was a transformation of my life’s purpose. It allowed me to merge my business expertise with my passion for creating beautiful, comfortable shoes. Despite the challenges, this decision has been incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally.

Okay – so how did you figure out the manufacturing part? Did you have prior experience?

Yes, we do manufacture our products, and getting started was quite the journey. When I decided to start Elizée, I knew I wanted our shoes to embody the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, which led me to Italy. However, I didn’t know how to manufacture shoes myself, so I dedicated several years to learning. I attended courses and traveled to different regions in Italy, including Parabiago, Marche, and Vigevano, to find the right partners.

Finding the right manufacturing partner was crucial. I needed a factory that could produce shoes to our exacting standards and accommodate small initial production runs. After visiting various factories and meeting with artisans, I partnered with a family-run factory in Vigevano known for its expertise and high quality and beautiful stitching and patterns. For our second collection, we expanded production to Tuscany. 

The lessons I’ve learned about manufacturing are many. Building strong relationships with production partners is vital. Regular communication and mutual respect are essential. I visit our factories frequently and work closely with the artisans. Material selection is another critical aspect. We exclusively use the finest Italian leathers, sourced from tanneries with the highest grade of ICEC certification, ensuring both aesthetic and functional quality.

Manufacturing involves constant problem-solving and adaptability. From adjusting designs for comfort to managing supply chain challenges, it’s a dynamic process that requires a proactive approach. One key innovation for us was developing the Plush Contour Insole with advanced materials, which has been a game-changer in providing all-day comfort without sacrificing style.

Overall, the journey to establish our manufacturing process has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. It has allowed us to create a brand that stands for both luxury and comfort, making a real difference in the lives of our customers.