Today we’d like to introduce you to Maya Levi.
Hi Maya, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
The brand Olive Thomas was born 12 years ago with the belief that shoes are more than a fashion article, they are an essential extension of our bodies. Being that they have almost “miraculous” abilities- wearing the “right” shoes, shoes that one is comfortable in, both physically and mentally, will boost one’s self-confidence.
The brand has a very distinct line that has both a timeless and effortless look. Growing in between two cultures, with an English mother and an Israeli father, the brand is a blend between the “sensible” and “tailored” shoes of the English culture of my childhood and the familiarity and casualness of Israel.
Since its founding, the brand has been established as a key player in the local market. Over 100 different styles have been designed and produced at a local family factory with hand-picked quality materials. The sizes range from 35 to 43 to be as inclusive as possible. Each collection is made up from about 15 models, when half are new and more or less half of them are repeat models in order to let new customers a chance to acquire previous styles.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have several struggles along the way, but I feel that the brand has evolved through dealing with the difficulty. Initially, the greatest difficulty was a lack of original materials – all the shoe designers were buying their leathers from the same two suppliers. So, I started importing leathers from Italy, which vastly expanded my choice and my design process. And then of course there was COVID-19, which was a struggle for everyone, but it also meant that I had a chance to stop for a moment and make decisions regarding the course of the brand rather than being in a state of inertia.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a shoe designer and brand owner of Olive Thomas Shoes. I am pretty much a one-woman show, doing everything from the initial design of the shoes to choosing the materials, overseeing the production (in a family-run factory nearby) to meeting the customers in the brands’ shop.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out.
I know it’s a bit cliche but stay true to your vision. It’s very easy to be sidetracked by trends and competitors, but in the end, the customer is interested in the story that you have to tell. And on the other hand, try not to take things too personally!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://olive-thomas.co.il/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olivethomashoes/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/olivethomas.designershoes
Image Credits
Dror Ben Naftali
