A Conversation with Monica Mei, Global Footwear Awards Juror

Meet Monica Mei, a visionary in sustainable design and luxury fashion, whose career spans over two decades of creativity, innovation, and collaborations with the world’s most prestigious brands. With a deep-rooted passion for design and sustainability, Monica has carved a niche for herself at the intersection of high fashion and environmental consciousness. From her early days as a young designer in Florence, inspired by her artistic father and the rich cultural heritage surrounding her, to her current role as a Global Footwear Award juror, Monica’s journey is nothing short of remarkable.

Her professional path began after graduating from the Academy of Fine Arts, where her talent for fashion design led to collaborations with legendary names such as Armani, Valentino, and Christian Lacroix. Working across various divisions, including clothing and knitwear, she soon discovered her true passion for footwear and leather goods. Monica’s relentless pursuit of excellence drove her to further her education, ultimately earning a Master’s degree in Accessories and securing her place in the iconic house of Gucci, where her career as a footwear designer truly took off.

Over the years, she honed her craft in the style offices of Prada, Sergio Rossi, Versace, and Fratelli Rossetti taking on key roles that helped shape the global luxury landscape. Her creations not only contributed to the success of these brands but also established her reputation as a designer who seamlessly blends artistic vision with commercial success. In addition to her high-fashion achievements, Monica has consistently championed sustainable practices, expanding her expertise in fashion sustainability and the circular economy, particularly during the pandemic.

Today, as a freelance consultant for both Italian and international brands, Monica continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a designer in the modern era.

In this interview, we delve into how her rich experiences, from the ateliers of Florence to global fashion capitals, have shaped her unique approach to fashion, sustainability, and the future of design. Discover how Monica Mei remains at the forefront of innovation while preserving the timeless elegance that defines her work.

Can you tell us a bit about your background? How did design come to have such an important role in your life and where has it taken you over the years?

Design has always been at the core of my existence. As a child, I was fascinated by how aesthetics and functionality intersected in everyday objects. My passion for fashion started early, with a particular interest in how accessories and footwear could transform an outfit and a person’s confidence. Over the years, this passion has led me to collaborate with some of the most iconic brands, shaping my understanding of design and its potential to influence culture.

What would you say is your personal design philosophy? How has this philosophy evolved throughout your career?

My design philosophy is based on the idea that true beauty lies in simplicity and purpose. Every piece I create must serve a function but also evoke an emotional response. Over the years, I’ve deepened my knowledge of sustainability, completing a master’s degree in sustainability at Bocconi University in Milan. This journey, along with collaborations with luxury brands like Prada, Sergio Rossi, Gucci, and Versace, has enriched my vision, pushing me to consider not just aesthetics, but also the environmental and ethical impact of my work.

Working with such renowned brands like Armani, Valentino, and Christian Lacroix so early in your career must have been quite an enriching experience. Can you tell us about these collaborations and how they influenced your development as a designer?

Collaborating with brands like Armani, Valentino, and Christian Lacroix early in my career was an incredibly enriching experience. However, it was the luxury brands such as Prada, Sergio Rossi, Gucci, and Versace that provided the most significant input for improving my work. These collaborations taught me the importance of pushing the boundaries of design while maintaining a strong connection to craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

You have a great interest in fashion sustainability and circular economy, how do you integrate this into your current projects?

I have a strong interest in sustainability in fashion and the circular economy, topics I delved into during my master’s degree in sustainability. I integrate these principles into all my current projects, using materials from sustainable sources and committing to reducing waste during production.

What are some key trends in footwear and accessories design that you are excited about right now? How do you see these trends evolving in the next few years?

Currently, some of the key trends in footwear and accessories design that excite me are the use of innovative and sustainable materials, along with a return to more classic forms reinterpreted in a modern way. In the coming years, I see these trends evolving towards greater personalization and even more responsible and transparent design.

Your work has been praised across various brands and markets. What do you believe make your designs stand out and resonate with both the brands and their customers?

I believe what makes my designs unique is the combination of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. I strive to create pieces that are not only visually appealing but also offer real value to clients. My collaborations with luxury brands have always aimed to find a balance between innovation and tradition, and I believe this approach resonates with people.

Could you share a particularly memorable experience from your work that you still think about to this day?

A particularly memorable experience was the first time I saw one of my designs worn on an international fashion runway. It was a moment of great pride, a recognition of all the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my craft. Every time I think about it, I’m reminded of why I love doing what I do.

As a jury member for the Global Footwear Awards, what do you prioritise when evaluating designs? What advice would you give to aspiring designers who look up to you?

As a jury member for the Global Footwear Awards, I prioritize originality, sustainability, and the ability of a design to tell a story. My advice for aspiring designers is to be bold, to explore new ideas without fear, and to stay true to their vision, while never losing sight of the importance of quality and innovation.

What do you envision for the future, both for yourself and for the broader design community?

For the future, I envision a design world increasingly oriented towards sustainability and inclusivity. As for myself, I will continue to explore new materials and technologies, seeking to push the boundaries of responsible design. I’m excited to see how our industry will evolve and how we can all contribute to a better future through design.