Following her studies at the Academy of Art in San Francisco, Konstantina Tzovolou worked as a buyer and merchandiser, and spent five years at internet startups, before taking the big decision to start her own label. Her namesake line offering high-end footwear entirely crafted in Italy debuted last fall. In less than a year, the talented designer saw her bold designs being praised by worldwide press, and sold at online boutiques all around the world. Most recently, her shoes were featured in Malan Breton’s Spring/Summer 2015 catwalk show in NYFW. We sat down with Konstantina to discuss her young brand and future goals for her business.
Tell us a few words about your collaboration with Malan Breton in his Spring/Summer 2015 show.
It was everything I could have asked for as an emerging designer. I feel truly lucky and proud of having been a part of New York Fashion Week, participating in Malan Breton’s show at such an early stage of the brand. It was absolutely amazing.
When did you realize you wanted to switch careers and start your own company?
I have always wanted to start my own business. I knew that from a very early age, but I didn’t know exactly in what area, when and how. It wasn’t until the a few years ago when starting my own shoe brand clicked and made total sense given my endless love for shoes!
Where do you look for inspiration when designing?
Everywhere; from art and scenery to my colorful Nespresso coffee capsules.
What kind of materials do you mostly use in your collections? Are there any you thought you would never use, or you would like to use in the future?
I’ve been using all sorts of leathers, from classic suedes and cowhides to beautiful textures. I’ve ended up using a lot more lace and mesh materials than I EVER thought I would.
Have you had any mentors throughout your studies and career?
There are lots of designers I’ve looked up to and emulated throughout my journey, but no one-on-one mentors.
At this point of your career, how important is feedback from the buyers and press to you?
It’s probably the most important and critical feedback. Still being at the beginning of my career, where any press and buyer attention you receive is priceless, getting feedback from the people that know and control the market is extremely essential.
You have already launched three collections. What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt since you established your label?
Go slow and be patient. It takes time.
Does “Made in” matter in your industry eventually?
Fine craftsmanship is key to all luxury markets. Consumers are willing to pay for that when they know what it stands for.
What are you currently working on?
Brand awareness. It’s probably the hardest part about the brand I’ve had to work on. If I succeeded, it would also be the most essential.
www.konstantinatzovolou.com
Images © Konstantina Tzovolou, and Konstantina’s portrait via Lioness Magazine
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