NEROGIARDINI: THE MADE IN ITALY MISSION
A leading Italian footwear brand, NeroGiardini, represents Italian excellence in combining traditional leather artisan techniques and cutting edge industrial technologies. We’re proud of our results, and pride is one of our brand’s core values. Our Made in Italy footwear is the expression of the worldwide renowned Italian quality and creativity, highly appreciated today as a distinctive feature of our production.
We had the pleasure of speaking with a representative from NeroGiardini, who shared some behind-the-scenes secrets of their unique shoe-making process. This exclusive interview delves into how NeroGiardini combines the tradition of Italian craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to create their iconic styles. We discuss the importance of artisanal handcrafting, the premium materials they use, and how the brand maintains a perfect balance between aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
How does the process of creating a shoe begin at your company? Is each shoe designed from a hand-drawn sketch or with the help of digital tools?
At NeroGiardini, the design process begins with a combination of tradition and innovation. Our designers draw inspiration from the latest fashion trends, but also from timeless Italian craftsmanship. While many initial concepts are hand-drawn, we increasingly use digital tools for precise modeling and prototyping. This fusion of traditional sketches and advanced digital technology allows us to create shoes that are both beautifully crafted and perfectly fitting.
What inspires the designs for your shoes? Do you follow specific trends or focus more on timeless styles?
Our designs are inspired by a blend of contemporary trends and the enduring elegance of Italian style. We strive to create shoes that are both fashionable and timeless. While we take into account current trends, we prioritize creating pieces that will remain relevant and stylish over the years, reflecting a unique fusion of modernity and tradition.
What are the key steps that take a shoe from the initial concept to the finished product?
The journey of a NeroGiardini shoe starts with the design phase, where our team develops initial sketches and concepts. Once a design is selected, we move to material selection, ensuring we use only the highest quality leathers and textiles. After prototypes are made, the shoes undergo a series of tests to ensure comfort, durability, and style. Finally, our artisans meticulously craft and finish each pair with great attention to detail, ensuring a perfect final product.
What role does tradition play in the design and production of your shoes? Do you use any specific techniques that are characteristic of Italian craftsmanship?
Tradition is at the heart of our brand. The techniques used by our artisans have been passed down through generations, and we are proud to incorporate these time-honored methods into our production. For example, the art of hand-finishing leather and the use of stitching that enhances both durability and design are hallmark traits of Italian craftsmanship. These techniques are central to ensuring that every NeroGiardini shoe is of exceptional quality.
Which materials are most commonly used in your collections, and why are they important for the quality and design of your shoes?
We use a wide range of high-quality materials, including fine leathers, soft suedes, and durable rubber for our soles. Leather is central to our designs because of its versatility, comfort, and luxury appeal.
How important is the handmade approach in your brand’s shoe production? How much of the work is done by artisans by hand?
The handmade approach is a cornerstone of NeroGiardini’s production process. While modern technology helps with some aspects of shoe-making, the majority of our work is still carried out by skilled artisans. From hand-finishing details to stitching and assembling, our artisans ensure that every shoe is a true work of craftsmanship, imbued with precision and care.
How has your shoe-making process evolved over the years? Do you incorporate any innovative technologies to enhance production?
Over the years, our shoe-making process has evolved through a careful balance of preserving tradition while embracing innovation. We have incorporated cutting-edge technologies like 3D modeling and CAD software to improve design accuracy and production efficiency. Additionally, we have introduced new processes to stay at the forefront of the industry, without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.
What challenges do you face when balancing aesthetics with functionality in shoe design and production?
Balancing aesthetics with functionality is always a challenge, but it’s a core part of our design philosophy. We aim to create shoes that are not only visually appealing but also comfortable, durable, and practical. This means paying attention to factors like fit, support, and material choice, while ensuring that every design is also stylish and on-trend. The key is to always prioritize the wearer’s experience while maintaining the integrity of our design.
What role does sustainability play in your shoe-making process? Do you use recycled or eco-friendly materials?
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important part of our production process. We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint. Additionally, we are constantly exploring new methods to improve the sustainability of our production processes, from reducing waste to using renewable energy in our factories.
What distinguishes your brand’s shoes from others in the industry? What makes them uniquely Italian?
NeroGiardini shoes stand out for their blend of impeccable Italian craftsmanship, timeless design, and high-quality materials. Our shoes reflect the elegance and sophistication that Italy is known for, while also incorporating modern influences that keep them relevant in today’s fashion landscape. The attention to detail, the use of luxurious materials, and the dedication to comfort are what make our shoes uniquely Italian, creating a perfect balance of style and functionality.
New Autumn/Winter Collection
The autumn-winter collection NeroGiardini offers a refined blend of Italian elegance and contemporary style. The pieces are designed with timeless appeal in mind, yet feature fashion details that align with current trends. Warm leather boots, sophisticated ankle boots, and comfortable everyday shoes are made from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and comfort.
The collection boasts colors that are incredibly trendy this season—from deep earthy tones like brown to classic neutral shades and glamorous golden hues. These colors pair beautifully with natural materials like leather, creating an elegant and sophisticated look.
NeroGiardini women's shoes are available in Emporium, Galerija Emporium and Emporium.si.