Melisa Denizeri

@melisadenizeri

In Her Shoes — Fellow shoe designer Melisa Denizeri never throws out a pair she loves, regardless of whether they fit into her daily wardobe. 

 

Photography: Jerome Corpuz

 

What neighborhood do you live in?

Brooklyn Heights, New York

What do you do for work?

Designer - I have a focus on Footwear and Accessories.

What is your favorite / most treasured item of clothing or jewelry, and why?

My Prada Sunglasses from SS2010, I have worn them every summer since. They have seen so much! I also love my Vintage Yellow Crewneck Sweatshirt - I wear it year around anywhere, it is the perfect fit and best faded yellow color.

What do you do to feel polished before going out everyday?

My schedule varies daily with separate clients and meetings, however I am very comfort driven and relaxed overall. I tend to stick to casual comfort driven looks. If I want to dress it up- I usually rely on switching shoes!

Do you have any style principles that you try to stick to on a daily basis?

Comfort first.

How would you define good style?

I would say if one looks comfortable, with an edge that seems to be rare and particular to them vs. trend driven.

Can you describe your all-time favorite pair of shoes and a good memory you have wearing them?

I was probably 4-5 when I spotted a pair of lace up boots with a mini heel in London with my mother - I wanted them so badly. It’s my first memory of wanting a shoe, or picking a piece for myself. I have worn them to death and sadly grew out of them fast. We still have them in my wardrobe back at home. The design is so timeless - it really is the perfect boot- would love to have them remade for myself.

How do shoes fit into your wardrobe?

They are a HUGE part! I have a lot of good pairs I love, partly because of what I do - whether they are not my size and just for research, or personal shoes I rotate through the seasons and years. I collect pieces to keep for life, I never throw out a pair I love, I know they will come back to me even if it takes years.

Does your job dictate, in any way, what you wear everyday?

I am lucky to work at my own office and schedule meetings with clients. I of course make an effort to feel good and look good when I am out. However these days my style is mostly driven by a lot of dog walking!

How important is it for you to be comfortable in your clothes and shoes? Do you make style choices that sacrifice your comfort?

I have a few times and regretted it, I never ended up wearing the shoes at the end. So comfort is super important.

Where do you buy most of your clothing?

I love to wear the designers I work with/ am friendly with, as well as vintage finds. A few of my favorite brands are Prada, Acne, Maryam Nassir Zadeh, Khaite and Sophie Bahai. I rotate outfits with a lot of Nikes and Adidas and vintage boots.

Do you have a particular item of clothing or an accessory that makes you feel powerful? confident? safe?

A good coat always makes me feel good. And a strong boot.

Who are your personal style icons?

My close friends, Princess Diana (surprise!), Miuccia Prada, Sade, Zadie Smith.

Any personal link or work you want me to shout out?

Working to launch a collection next Summer! (and it’s not Shoe project ! ;) )

Melisa is wearing her own clothing and the Sophia Pump in black suede.