To the World, with Love from Galicia
Founder and head designer of international shoe brand with humble roots, Miista, Laura Villasenin discusses how she utilized the equilibrium of her existence to inspire her life’s work.
to the world,
with love from Galicia
Alicja Goldenrod Leather Heels $187.50 Beck Black Net Sandals $238
Currently, Villasenin can be found in her favorite buttery soft, hand woven sandals perusing the internet and antique shops for rare furniture finds and other unique homewares in London; but the designer’s roots are not of origin to London town. Villasenin was born in Galicia, an autonomous community on the North Western coast of Spain. Galicia avowals everything from breathtaking beaches to dramatic cliffs and the semi-secret hideaway is rich in tradition and culture. The ideal birthplace for an artist like Laura Villasenin.
The beautiful juxtaposition of the land of 1000 rivers influenced the designer’s own perspective on style. An obvious homage to her rural Spanish heritage, Miista is a women’s footwear brand that balances creativity, function, and quality. “Miista brings together opposites in deliberate juxtaposition,” expresses Villasenin; “it embodies an elegant balance in the unusual through an informed marriage of design, material, and craft.” The designer created a brand that perfectly parallels her own life experiences. “To start with I grew up in Galicia,” begins the creator, “but before long my eyes grew too wide. I packed up and moved to London’s East - Hackney - looking to perfect my craft and by 2010 I felt I was ready to start my own label. [We] have been designing shoes from our East London studio ever since.” Miista is a little Galician, a little British, and entirely original – just like Villasenin.
Designing from London, Villasenin’s intention is to be playful with different shapes and materials creating affordable and high-quality shoes. “We design for people who want something that is interesting and well made. For someone who not only sees beautiful design, but the craftsmanship that goes into it,” states Villasenin. The shoes are a must have for anyone with a versatile wardrobe. Each shoe is perfect for a night out in Mallorca, but also a day full of shopping on Oxford Street. “That’s the best part about Miista shoes,” beams Villasenin. “They’re elegant enough to put the humble jeans and shirt together, but will elevate the look when you pair them, for example, with a silk shirt and a nice tailored jacket.”
Dallis Black Woven Leather Boots $390 | Cimarron Seaweed Croc Leather Sandals $170 | Caroline Black Stone OliveWoven Leather Boots $260
Noted as a key component to the success of the brand, and to Villasenin’s signature pieces, is the skilled shoemaking community of Alicante, Spain. Since the 19th century, that community has been crafting quality shoes and Villasenin has been able to uphold that tradition through Miista. Now Alicante exports their craftsmanship globally. Despite having a global presence herself, Villasenin is intentional to ensure that Miista stays true to its core. Their entire team is relentlessly transparent because Villasenin wants every customer to know the people, the process, and the political views behind the brand. Saying, “It was more than just about the shoes from the beginning. We want you to be aware of what you are buying into. We're a shoe brand, but we feature articles covering themes way beyond design. We want to create more of a platform for open conversation and transparency.” Villasenin prides herself on ensuring that her customers feel good when they wear her designs. The shoes espouse a quiet, but powerful statement, securing the Miista wearer is empowered, strong, and intentional.
Next for Miista is a natural extension of the brand. “We constantly seek to experiment with techniques, embracing an ever-yearning desire to explore fabric capabilities and textures. Prepare yourself for a range of amazing new shapes and boots hopefully to become our new classic,” reveals Villasenin. Pushing even further out of her range, the designer wants Miista to offer structured leather bags and outfit an entire “Miista” woman - from head to squared toe. “It’s nice to give a proper backdrop for them in a form of trousers, coats and beautiful knit topped with handmade accessories. We’re working on Miista womenswear that shares the same DNA as our leather goods,” states the founder, “designed in London, handcrafted in Spain. Elegant, but pushing that design envelope.” To the world, with love, you do not want to miista-thing.
To the world, with love,
