In the ever-evolving world of fashion, where trends shift rapidly, a brand like Very Lovely Soles stands out. Founded by Vanessa L. Seide, the company is not only known for its stylish footwear but also for its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. Vanessa’s journey from working for major shoe companies to creating her own brand is a story of passion, resilience, and determination.
Vanessa’s path to founding Very Lovely Soles was shaped by her extensive experience in the footwear industry. “I began my journey working for a well-known shoe company, where I gained extensive knowledge in shoe design, production, and marketing,” she recounts. However, an unexpected layoff became a turning point in her career. Rather than seeing it as a setback, Vanessa viewed it as an opportunity to take control of her professional destiny.
“Driven by the determination to never be in a position where I had to rely on someone else for my professional future, I embarked on the entrepreneurial path,” Vanessa explains. Her vision was clear: to create a brand that offers stylish, high-quality footwear while embodying her commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. This journey, though fulfilling, has also been “incredibly exhausting and scary,” she admits.
The decision to start her own company came during a significant moment in Vanessa’s life. “I was dating someone who had his own successful restaurant. He really put the idea to start my own thing in my head,” she recalls. The pivotal moment happened on a street corner in Geneva, Switzerland—a day she will never forget. “I decided to go for it,” she says with a smile.
Starting Very Lovely Soles was not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was securing funding. “When I started out, banks were not giving loans to women, especially for fashion and footwear,” Vanessa notes. She relied heavily on her own savings and financial support from family and friends to get her business off the ground.
Choosing a name for her company was a deeply personal decision. “My initials are VLS—Very Lovely Soles. I thought it was fitting,” she explains. This name not only reflects her identity but also encapsulates the essence of her brand.
For Vanessa, the most rewarding aspect of her journey has been the fulfillment of turning her vision into reality. “Seeing my designs come to life and knowing they resonate with customers is immensely gratifying,” she shares. Positive feedback from customers reinforces that she is on the right path.
Moreover, building a brand that aligns with her values has been incredibly rewarding. “I’ve had the opportunity to implement sustainable practices and work with ethical suppliers,” Vanessa proudly states. Creating a team that shares her passion and watching them grow alongside the company is another highlight.
The freedom to make decisions and steer the company in her desired direction has been both liberating and empowering. “It’s this combination of personal and professional growth, along with the positive impact on our customers and the planet, that makes this journey so rewarding,” she reflects.
Vanessa’s design process is a blend of creativity, innovation, and a deep commitment to her customers. “The journey begins with gathering inspiration from various sources, such as current fashion trends, nature, art, and even everyday life,” she explains. Her approach to design is characterized by a “less is more” philosophy, focusing on simplicity and elegance.
From sketching and prototyping to material selection and quality control, every step of the design process is meticulously executed. “I source high-quality, sustainable materials that provide durability and comfort,” Vanessa emphasizes. Each pair of shoes undergoes rigorous testing to ensure they meet her high standards.
What sets her designs apart from others on the market is her deep understanding of quality combined with simplicity. “I prioritize simplicity and elegance, ensuring every shoe is crafted with the highest quality materials for durability and style,” she says. Her designs also incorporate extra foam for enhanced comfort, offering a superior wearing experience.
Looking ahead, Vanessa’s primary goal is to keep moving forward. One project she’s excited about is finding a new artist to collaborate with, following the success of a previous collaboration with a local artist.
Balancing the demands of running a business with personal life is a challenge Vanessa continues to navigate. “Each day is so different. I can only say a typical day is always a whirlwind,” she laughs. Prioritizing tasks and accepting that sometimes things will take the back burner has been key to maintaining balance.
In her journey with Very Lovely Soles, Vanessa L. Seide has not only built a brand but also a legacy of quality, sustainability, and ethical practices. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination and a clear vision, it’s possible to create something truly remarkable.