Today we’d like to introduce you to Claudia Lisotta.
Hi Claudia, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
At the age of 19 years old I moved to the United States to pursue the American Dream. I was actually persuaded by my mom for a better future.
Initially, I sold leather goods in kiosk mall carts at my Brother-in-Law’s business in Florida. I didn’t speak any English and literally learned on the job and from a booklet my sister made for me to learn the basics. Eleven-hour days six days a week, I was dropped off every morning and picked up every night after work due to not having saved enough money to buy a car. On the menu was pizza for quite some time at Sbarro’s because of the lack of English-speaking skills.
Moving forward ten years, married with two boys We moved to Texas, and in the amazing turn of events, I decided to pursue my dreams and start my very own shoe brand strongly convicted to the idea God had put in my heart. Not knowing where and how to begin I became obedient to the idea and researched it for a couple of years. Being led once again back to my origins I decided to fly to Brazil in 2020 at the height of COVID to meet with the factory I found through the research. I was able to find the very same factory producing shoes for some of my inspirational designers.
Now a couple of years in, I’m fulfilling my ultimate dream.
My company is dedicated to spreading a message of love and encouragement to women all over the world with my beautiful designs and Gospel-centered messages, I will donate a percentage of the company’s income to nonprofits throughout the world. Being the CEO I’m transforming the footwear industry, proving that fashion is more than a luxury — it’s truly an art.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been easy at all. From the very beginning, it has been one obstacle after another. Moving away from my Family from Brazil, Not speaking the language, learning a new culture, after 17 years in FL we had to move to Texas leaving family behind once again, becoming a citizen was a long road, starting the business in the height of COVID, traveling to meet with factories during COVID. These were some of the struggles.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve always loved fashion, and working alongside talented colleagues in the fashion industry carrying quality brands has tough me a lot. However, becoming a fashion designer is what I’m most proud of. Being self-tough I learned drawing and sketching shoes online by watching videos and carrying my expertise and creativity to another level allowing me to develop my very own brand. As the head and creative designer, I bring to life luxurious styles that are meaningful and intentionally created to spreading a message of love and encouragement to women all over the world. I truly believe this sets us apart being that we are the very first shoe brand to pair high fashion and a gospel-message centered, transforming the footwear industry, proving fashion is more than luxury- it’s truly an art.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Oh yes, dedication, perseverance, lots of patience, hard work, and the most important one is to trust God in the process.
Pricing:
- Delilah slides $248
- Leah sandal $348
- Tabitha sandal $389
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Claudialisotta.com
- Instagram: Claudialisottabrand
- Facebook: Claudia Lisotta brand
Image Credits
Jenny Martell Photography
Felipe Castruita Photoraphy
