The velvet trend has come, conquered and has plans to stay. We’ve seen velvet shoes all over the market, but one of our favorite brands just so happens to be based right in our backyard!
Fifi Venezia is a hand-crafted velvet slide, constructed by skilled Italian craftsman in Venice. Kim Fox and Lynn Pyle, two Newport Beach locals, launched the company three years ago and it has taken off. While the mule trend is relatively new, these shoes are unique with their 100+ year legacy. We like to consider them the ‘original’ mules. Stocked at retailers such as A’marees and Ron Herman Japan and found on websites such as Vogue, Mother Mag, and Refinery 29; you can see Fifi’s on some of the most fashion-forward women around the world.
We love the story behind Kim and Lynn- two friends and empty nesters with different career backgrounds who came together to start a business. These ladies are stylish, smart, determined and very fun to be around (if we do say so ourselves!). We had the best time with Kim and Lynn and are excited to share their story with you…
What does the Art of Being Female mean to you?
Women doing what they love to do whether it be work, play, family, etc and sharing it with others. Highlighting the DNA of what makes all of us uniquely female.
When did you start Fifi Venezia and what inspired you to start a business at this stage of your life?
Lynn and I started Fifi’s January 2016. I use to travel to Venice and I fell in love with the ancient handmade shoe. Bringing them home for gifts caused a real stir of interest. Lynn and I were both looking for an idea to keep us in the business world and to keep our minds moving.
What makes these shoes so unique compared to other velvet shoes on the market?
They have a lot of history, dating back to World War II. The style with the point on the top of the foot makes them very chic. They are handmade by ladies in the country outside of Venice. They are affordable and very durable and can be worn with work out clothes, jeans, or a Dior dress.
What has your greatest accomplishment been during this new venture?
We were lucky to have created an amazing following. We also sell to Amaree’s, one of the most beautiful stores in the world. Men and Women of all ages are dying to have their special pair of Fifi’s.
Greatest challenge?
Working with Italy and the language barrier. We need to learn to speak Italian!
Is it difficult to manage your business, families and social life? How do you do it?
Not too difficult because we cover for each other and we have learned to surround ourselves with very experienced people such as Maria Barnes, Kirby Kurzeka, Myrna Chan, and of course our children, the millennials. Our business is very social and we get to travel to Venice once a year. Fifi round table on Wednesday afternoons start with ice coffees and end with a glass of wine.
What style/shoe do you gravitate towards for your everyday life?
Kim gravitates to the velvet Canal mule and Lynn the velvet Gritti loafer.
How do you come up with the colors?
We try to keep the classics in stock. Black, Blue, and Bordo are the best sellers. We love to also bring in the beautiful vibrant colors like fuchsia, orange, and yellow. We always try to come up with new fabrics but the velvets just sell, sell, sell!!
What is a lesser known fact about Fifi’s?
That my grandmother (Fifi) never wore them.
Most women also don’t know that if you ever get them dirty you can throw them in the wash and they will come out looking brand new.
What is your best selling style?
Velvet Canal mule
How did you two meet?
Lynn and I met in 1978 at USC. We were both in the Delta Gamma Sorority and Lynn was my ‘Big Sister’ in the house. We reconnected after college and became friends and travel buddies.
What is it like starting a business with a friend?
Lynn and I have a great working relationship. It takes some time to get to know each other’s strengths. Trust is key in our partnership.
You both travel a lot…where are your favorite places to visit and why?
Kim loves Italy of course, Mexico, and her yearly trip to Wyoming. Lynn loves Italy, Sun Valley, Idaho, and Mexico.
Funny how we are very similar where we like to travel. We are both a part of a travel group called the Trippers. We are on our way to Portugal for a bike trip!
Can you each tell us your top 3 favorite boutiques?
Kim – A’maree’s, La La (Laguna Beach), Fred Segal
Lynn – A’maree’s, Theodore (Ketchum, Idaho), The Row (Melrose Place)
What does the future hold for Fifi Venezia?
Hopefully expanding our product line. We want to move to a farmhouse in Tuscany, learn Italian and bring all the coolest stuff to America under the Fifi Brand.
Shop our entire line here!
Follow us on Instagram: @fifivenezia
Follow us on Facebook: @fifivenezia