What inspired you to start Kathis Shoes, and what gap did you see in the market for stylish large-size women’s footwear?
I’m a woman who has loved fashion — especially shoes — since I was a child. In my teenage years, at 1.81 metres tall and wearing a shoe size 42/43, it was often incredibly frustrating that the most beautiful, current styles weren’t available in my size. In recent years, the range of large-size shoes has grown, but the options are still mostly unfashionable and lacking femininity.
I increasingly felt that tall women were given far too few opportunities to express their femininity through fashion. Someone needed to stand up for the millions of women with larger shoe sizes and offer them a real choice — ideally from the perspective of someone who truly understands what matters. A woman who knows exactly which styles we want and which fits work best for us.
Tell us about your journey to learn the shoe-making process.
Kathis journey began exactly four years ago — without any prior knowledge or experience in shoe production. I had no idea how many individual components and suppliers were involved in making a single shoe. Step by step, I taught myself how to create designs, develop initial components and patterns in Germany, and customise the fits.
Eventually, my first collection was ready — and I found a factory in Italy that was willing to produce shoes from scratch in larger sizes.
Why was it important for you to manufacture in Italy?
Italy is known for its high-quality craftsmanship — especially in shoemaking. From the very beginning, it was important to me to produce shoes that reflect traditional quality and durability. For me, sustainability also means that shoes should last as long as possible.
I also wanted to manufacture responsibly and as locally as possible. In Italy, I found the perfect combination: quality, aesthetics, and ethical production.
You have an atelier where customers can visit and try on your shoes. What feedback do you hear most from customers who’ve struggled to find beautiful shoes in EU sizes 42+?
The most common feedback I receive is that customers are so happy to finally find beautiful shoes in their size. Many tell me that in the past, they had to settle for styles that were unfeminine or out of fashion.
Another thing I often hear is how impressed they are with the high quality of the shoes — which is always wonderful to hear.
What is your favourite pair of Kathis Shoes?
My favourite pair is the No.02 biker boots in the colder months and the No.03 sandals in taupe during summer — they’re also perfect for special occasions. To be honest, though, I love all the styles and often can’t make up my mind!