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| Rodman Martinez, CEO of Maker’s Shoes and his wife at MBFWS 2014. Image by Pedro Galvez Courtesy of Fashion Guru. |
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| Image: Courtesy of Fashion Guru. |
Having achieved his goal, making his brand “Maker’s Shoes” the most sought out shoes in Latin America, the entrepreneur Rodman Martinez goes for more, the Anglo-market!
The Brand was present at one of the most important fashion events of the year, “Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim” in South Beach, presenting his latest “Spring-Summer Collection” along with swimwear designer, Naila and Aquarella Swimwear.
During the prepping for the show, our founder and president Lissette Rondon got an exclusive backstage interview with Martinez where the successful entrepreneur talked about his brand, partnership with his brother, next projects and more…
LR- Tell us a little about your beginnings in the shoe industry?
“I thought the best way to penetrate the market was with an affordable price and acceptable quality. Along the way, I realized that the least important factor is the price. Women are looking for fashionable and different styles with good quality and they are willing to pay a little more for that,” added Martinez.
LR-What has been the most crucial moment that marked a “before” and “after” on you career and why?
“In mid 2010 we started color combination in light platforms. This important decision brought new customers because this niche had been left behind by other shoe designers.”
LR- We know that your brother Gonzalo (designer shoes), is also your partner. How did you get the idea of partnership between brothers?
“I knew my brother’s skills and our relationship has always been close and solid so it’s best to start a business with the people that love you and support you.”
LR-Tell us about your latest collection “Spring Summer Collection” by Maker’s Shoes.
“We are presenting new designs with a lot of golden details, some with a touch of neon and we also continue with color combinations in flats and sandals,” said Martinez. “Wedges with sexy cuts and much comfort (in the summer women want to look fresh without leaving aside the sexy and fashionable aspect).”
LR-What do you think of fashion in Miami?
“It is extremely versatile. We live in a multicultural city where fashion is very diverse, which provides the opportunity for different proposals,” added Martinez.
LR-Is there an international or local designer who has influenced or inspired you in some way?
“I couldn’t mention one in particular because our proposal is influenced by the tendency of fashion not by designers,” said Martinez.
LR- Having achieved your goal that “Maker’s Shoes” be the most sought after shoes in Latin America, what are your next projects in the short term?
“Well, keep working hard in the U.S. Market,” said Martinez. “Another goal we are reaching for September of this year, is the launching of Shoe Maker’s line for men.”
LR-Could you define your work and yourself with just 3 words?
“Passion, commitment and love for what I do.”
LR-Knowing what you know today in the footwear industry, what advice would you give emerging designers who are entering this field?
“Find their own label and pursue their dreams with hard work and effort,” said Martinez.
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| Maker’s Shoes at MBFWS 2014 Image by Pedro Galvez. Courtesy of Fashion Guru. |
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| Maker’s Shoes at MBFWS 2014 Image by Pedro Galvez. Courtesy of Fashion Guru. |
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| Maker’s Shoes at MBFWS 2014 Image by Pedro Galvez. Courtesy of Fashion Guru. |
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| Maker’s Shoes at MBFWS 2014 Image by Pedro Galvez. Courtesy of Fashion Guru. |
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| Maker’s Shoes at MBFWS 2014 Image by Pedro Galvez. Courtesy of Fashion Guru. |
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| Maker’s Shoes at MBFWS 2014 Image by Pedro Galvez. Courtesy of Fashion Guru. |
