ELIZÉE

Steps Onto the Napa Fashion Scene

BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF ELIZÉE

Fashionistas seeking to elevate their footwear, both metaphorically and literally, might consider a visit to Allison [in wine country] along St. Helena’s Main St., or C’est La Paire at First Street Napa, to experience Elizée. This collection of chic and comfortable heels is designed by Erika Carrero, a former Silicon Valley CFO on a mission to reshape luxury footwear by blending heritage craftsmanship with cutting-edge comfort technology. The motivation for her first collection of Italian-made heels came from personal experience as a well-traveled finance executive. “I would be in London meeting with clients or Stockholm with auditors, and I was constantly in pain from wearing heels all day,” said Carrero. “I couldn’t find shoes that were both stylish and comfortable; that’s when the idea of having my own brand originated.” Before launching Elizée, she spent six years studying the industry and traveling to Milan for research while working full time. “After successfully selling our tech company, I had to decide whether to look for my next CFO role or pursue the dream of having my own shoe line; I decided to pivot from the boardroom to fashion, and founded Elizée.” Her goal? To empower the modern woman's versatile lifestyle by delivering gorgeous and comfortable styles, making women feel confident, sexy, and ready to meet any challenge. Current styles (ranging from $395 - $545) include sandals, pumps, and booties, each designed by Carrero in consultation with podiatrists and handcrafted in an artisanal, family-run factory outside of Milan of Italian leathers sourced from certified sustainable tanneries. The comfort secret is in the plush contour insole that combines layers of memory foam and gel cushioning to reduce forefoot pressure, absorb impact, and provide stability. Carrero spends significant time with her team researching trends and new material developments, continually seeking inspiration for new styles.

“I am very excited to carry this new line as they bring comfort and style!” said Allison [in wine country] proprietor Allison Molinatti. “They will be a great addition to my store as a complement to the clothes I carry.”

For the high-heel shy, Carrero encourages a try-on, “You will immediately feel the difference when you step into Elizée. I have customers who haven’t worn heels in a very long time, and when they try on the shoes, they can’t believe how comfortable they are.”

At C’est La Paire, owner and buyer, Deborah Indelicato shared, “We are thrilled that heels are making a comeback and are so excited to carry Elizée’s premiere collection. Our customers seek chic, high quality shoes and Elizée offers the unique combination of comfort and style, which is the perfect duo when it comes to footwear, especially heels. The quality is also exceptional. Our customers really appreciate this, and we’ll be hosting some great trunk shows with Elizée.”

Elizée offers free shipping and quick delivery, as well as complimentary styling sessions.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Follow @elizeeshoes and visit www.elizeeshoes.com