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Handmade in Italy

21/07/2024

Schuhmacher handgefertigte Stilettos Made in Italy

THE ART OF STILETTO MAKING: A look behind the scenes at the GLORIELLAS manufactory

The art of italien stiletto making: a look behind the scenes at the GLORIELLAS manufactory


A high-quality stiletto goes through a number of steps before it is finally finished. But even the best manufacturing process is not worth much if high-quality materials are not used. That's why we at GLORIELLAS rely on quality leather produced in European tanneries that have a sustainable environmental management system.

Eva Benetatou in Gloriellas High Heels

Step 1: Shoe lasts

The final shoe is only as good as the last on which it was built. During production, it simulates the human foot with all its characteristics. GLORIELLAS stilettos have a curved and therefore particularly foot-friendly last shape. This shape not only ensures comfort, but also the perfect fit and elegance that characterize our stilettos.

Eva Benetatou in Gloriellas High Heels

Step 2: Modeling department


The later shoe is only as good as the last on which it is made The drafts for shoe models, their design and the last shape are created in the pattern department. This is where the hand-drawn templates are created, which are highly relevant for the subsequent work processes. This department is the creative heart of the manufactory, where an idea becomes a tangible design.

Eva Benetatou in Gloriellas High Heels

Step 3: Punching
The leather parts required for shoe production are cut out and marked in the punching shop. The punching shop cuts or punches out the individual components required for the shoe upper (upper) from the leather hide. These parts are either cut out by hand or using a laser cutter (for pre-series and prototypes) or punched out using a punching knife (in series production).

Step 4: Stitching

The cut-out leather parts are sewn together in the stitching room. The first step in stitching is always sewing the upper leather. The lining leather is then sewn into the upper leather. Trained employees operate special sewing machines that sew through the leather. The finished shoe upper is reinforced with a toe cap in the toe and a heel cap in the heel area. The shoe upper (shoe upper without sole) is transferred from the stitching department to the assembly department.

Eva Benetatou in Gloriellas High Heels

Step 5-11: Assembling

The heart of the shoe manufacturing process is the assembly department. This is where the high-quality GLORIELLAS high heel is assembled by hand from a collection of many individual materials.

Eva Benetatou in Gloriellas High Heels

The numerous steps include: 
- Joining the upper to the sole 
- Nailing the upper to the sole (with up to 20 individually hand-driven nails), which are then filed down 
- Attaching the heel 
- Attach the bottom sole 
- Integrate the inner lining or footbed 
- Attach the outsole


Step 12: Fine tuning and final inspection:

Before the previously assembled shoe goes on sale, it receives its finishing touches in the so-called “Shoeroom”. Shoe polish is applied, adhesive residue from production is removed by hand and the shoe is polished to a high gloss. Each pump is fitted with a functional sports sole made in Germany and undergoes a careful final inspection to ensure that it meets GLORIELLAS' high quality standards.


Step 13: Packing and shipping

Each pair is then lovingly packed individually in a shoe box and can be sent on its journey to its new owner. The attention to detail and passion for the profession of shoemaking can be felt in every department of this manufactory.


Conclusion:

The production of a high-quality stiletto at GLORIELLAS is a combination of traditional craftsmanship and state-of-the-art technology. Every step of the process, from the selection of the leather to the final polish, is carried out by experienced hands. This commitment to quality and craftsmanship makes every GLORIELLAS stiletto a masterpiece. Discover the excellence of Italian shoemaking and treat yourself and your feet to the luxury of a stylish and comfortable GLORIELLAS stiletto.


You can find more styling tips and feedback from GLORIELLAS wearers under TESTIMONIALS.