With a degree in opera singing, a degree in Business, and a diploma in shoe design, Valentina Rangoni is a multi-faceted woman. In 2015, Valentina joined the family business that has been producing footwear since 1937, the Rangoni brand, named after her grandfather and founder. In 2020, after several years of creating her designs, Valentina and her Creative Director sister, Carolina, founded their own company under Valentina’s name. They opened the first physical and online store in Italy of Rangoni footwear.
We caught up with the designer to learn more about her decision to leave the family company and start her brand.
The Rangoni brand started 90 years ago. What is the key to the company’s success through many changing decades of fashion?
The key to our company’s success over the years is the artisanal way our shoes are still made in our factory. Our factory’s technical expertise can only be achieved by transferring knowledge from the older employees to the younger ones.
What led you to start your brand?
I am very fortunate. After working in our company, I immediately felt the need to create my brand. So, after obtaining my shoe designer degree, my father helped me start my brand, Valentina Rangoni.
What inspires your designs?
I am usually very inspired by my travels. I love traveling a lot. I think it opens your mind. I usually take many pictures of landscapes and places, which help me draw inspiration for my collections.
Can you tell us about the sustainability of the company?
Sustainability is one of our main objectives. We try to be as local as possible to be as sustainable as possible. Our supply chain is all locally based. Our leather and accessories suppliers are less than 50 kilometers from our factory. We try to use old leather stock whenever possible to produce new shoe samples or old straps and heels to create new models.
How is it working together as family and business partners?
Like everything, it has its pros and cons. I find it very challenging because you must separate family issues at work and be professional. Also, you have to work harder to demonstrate your worth in your position and earn my father’s trust, in my case.
Do you have any advice for young designers looking to create their brand?
I would suggest working in a factory as soon as possible, even not as a designer, to see how this world works. Learning how a shoe is made, the fitting problems and the production challenges will be extremely helpful in designing the perfect shoe. Most importantly, design what you would wear and let your creativity flow. Don’t allow anybody to stop you.
Valentina Rangoni’s latest collection, Spring/Summer 2024, embodies the enchantment of California, capturing the essence of its vibrant colors and breathtaking sunsets. Inspired by the timeless beauty of the West Coast, this collection stands out for its fusion of sophisticated elegance and modern style, perfect for taking you from the first light of day to the most glamorous evenings.
California’s vibrant colors come alive in gradient leathers inspired by sunset skies, with jewel details and sparkling palms adding a tropical touch. Golden heels and satin bows bring luxury and femininity to every step. Whether at the office, the beach, or out for dinner, Valentina Rangoni’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection offers versatile, elegant footwear for every part of your day.
Visit https://valentinarangoni.com/.
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
