Elvira Panagiotopoulou grew up in a powerful environment of sophisticated, energetic women who inspired her to pursue a career out of what she was most passionate about – fashion. With studies on Shoe Design and a master’s degree in Accessories Design from Istituto Marangoni, Milan, Elvira cut her teeth next to elite luxury houses – Bruno Frisoni, Diego Dolcini, Narciso Rodriguez, Madeleine Vionnet and Dolce & Gabbana. After seven years crossing between cities, she took the leap of faith and launched her footwear company of luxury sandals, Di Gaia. Read on as she discusses her debut line and reflects on her Greek heritage, explaining, ultimately, what is it that keeps us coming back to ancient-Greek inspired footwear every summer.
What attracted you to Greek history and culture, and made you use it as an inspiration for a fashion line?
I was inspired to name my brand Di Gaia – pronounced like gà•ia – after Gaea, the Greek goddess of earth. For me, the name evokes my “earth,” my roots, which in any case are Greek. Di Gaia in Italian means “from the earth.”
Why is it that every summer we keep coming back to ancient-Greek inspired footwear?
Ancient Greek-inspired footwear is a classic style that will never fade with time, and can be interpreted by every designer in many possible ways. In the fashion houses I used to work for, designers were always using elements of Greek art as an inspiration.
Greek-inspired footwear companies seem to have a moment. What sets your company apart in this market?
Di Gaia is not really a Greek-inspired footwear brand. I design and produce high-end women’s footwear, not folklore Greek sandals. It is obvious, though, that my Greek origin influences my aesthetic. Therefore, I decided to launch my brand with a collection honoring my native city of Athens and her patroness, goddess Athena.
What made you decide having your line crafted entirely in Italy?
My last working experience as a shoe designer in the luxury industry in Italy provided me with a network of some of the best factories and suppliers of materials, which of course helped me a lot to launch my own line.
What are the challenges of producing only summer collections?
Eventually I will also have winter collections.
Given that you have also designed jewelry, would you expand in other accessories?
I have a Master in Accessories Design, therefore it is very likely that one day I will create other garments for my brand as well.
Give us some tips on choosing the right sandal.
The sandal should be made with good materials; I suggest you to look for quality leather, a solid and comfortable sole, and perfect fit to your feet.
What are your future plans?
To add more selling points of Di Gaia shoes all over the world.
For more information and selling points, visit www.digaia.com.
Images © Di Gaia
A.
