Julia Mays is a London based luxury footwear label dedicated to creating beautiful shoes that are a treat to wear. It was launched in 2015 by Julia Mayer, a creative entrepreneur with a background in consulting and a Master's degree from London Business School. Always more inspired by her shoes than by her spreadsheets, she saw an opportunity for beautiful, exceptionally well-crafted footwear that is wearable without being boring.
During her search for a partner to help realise her collection she came across the region of Vigevano, Italy. In awe of the craftsmanship and exceptional skill she encountered in Italy's numerous family businesses, she became consumed by the desire to celebrate their careful workmanship in a time where so many products are mass-produced often in an unsustainable way.
The traditional shoemaking area of Northern Italy is under significant pressure from low wage production countries, in line with the fast fashion trends that see apparel and accessories almost as disposable products.
In response, each pair of Julia Mays is made with components sourced from local Italian businesses and completely handcrafted in a tiny family run factory in Northern Italy. A fair, sustainable production line that supports local businesses and a celebration of art & craftsmanship is integral to the brand.
Hand drawn in her London studio, each design is inspired by Julia’s love of graphics, colour and art. The collections offer investment worthy shoes in a range of heel heights, colours and styles. Arguably the most comfortable heel you will ever wear, each pair is exceptionally engineered for balance and fit and handmade from delicate leathers and sumptuous fabrics.