Community Highlights: Meet Elvira Merz of EMILIA MERZ

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elvira Merz

Hi Elvira, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
With 25 years of experience in the fashion and lifestyle industry, including owning my own boutiques, I later established a successful fashion agency in Hamburg, Germany. There, I proudly introduced global brands to suitable retailers. 2021, I sold my agency and embarked on a life changing journey with my family.

Traveling through the World and Latin American countries provided me with ample inspiration. I was lucky to immerse myself in the art of handcrafting, particularly in the shoe industry, as I’ve always valued beautiful yet comfortable footwear.

Most of the shoes I encountered in stores were either stylish but uncomfortable or comfortable but lacking in style. I often thought, “Surely, it can’t be that difficult to create shoes that women truly want!” Indeed, I discovered that most shoe designers for women were men who never wore the shoes or understood how they felt in them.

Thus, the idea emerged to create fantastic shoes that I would love to wear myself. If these shoes appeal to other wonderful women seeking something special and comfortable, then EMILIA MERZ is the perfect destination.

We prioritize sustainability and exclusive production, eschewing mass production in favor of a focus on a select few, yet beautiful and exclusive styles. Our shoes are designed for women to wear in their everyday lives and for any occasion, embodying my motto,

“Elegance is in the details, and the right pair of shoes can elevate any outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.”

Our shoes are a genuine product, with every step meticulously handcrafted, steeped in tradition, and made with love. We take pride in supporting family businesses and preserving the tradition and survival of artisanal craftsmanship.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been anything but easy, but when you’re building something from scratch, it never is. It all started as a kind of ‘let’s just do something,’ because I love creating things and my head is bursting with ideas. I can’t sleep well anymore because so much is going through my mind. Honestly, I think I would have become the best business coach in the world, haha!

The biggest challenges for me, as a German with a mentality of punctuality—better 15 minutes early than 5 minutes late—were understanding the patience and tranquility of the Colombians and learning to be patient myself. Even though I speak Spanish well, there were still many misunderstandings. It takes time to build a team that works, and even then, there are always surprises.

One of the hardest things was finding reliable, high-quality manufacturers. There were moments when I cried, moments when I screamed. It’s an emotional rollercoaster when you are passionate about your work and creating something. The distance didn’t help either—being here without an assistant I could rely on.

It was also challenging to be a mother and prepare everything while working 12-hour days. Balancing the demands of family life and building a business from the ground up is no easy feat. So, respect to all the women out there who have children, manage so much, and still manage to start a business!

I could share so much more, but that would go beyond the scope of this conversation! It took me a year of preparation before I launched my brand, but I am an extreme perfectionist, and that doesn’t make things easier. To anyone out there, I would say preparation is key, but just get started, because only then will you truly see what needs to be improved and what your challenges will be.

As you know, we’re big fans of Merz Fashion Wholesale . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I founded my own brand, Emilia Merz, and design and produce unique, handcrafted shoes with a strong emphasis on sustainability and craftsmanship. Each pair is meticulously made by hand in Colombia, focusing on quality over quantity and avoiding mass production. What sets us apart is our commitment to creating something truly special, ensuring that our customers are not just another number but valued individuals.

Emilia Merz is more than just a fashion brand—it’s about forming a personal connection with our customers. We offer stylish, handcrafted shoes designed for women who value quality, uniqueness, and sustainability. Our goal is to create beautiful shoes for every occasion that are not only comfortable and accessible to everyday women but also contribute to a better world through sustainable practices. I draw inspiration from renowned designer icons but always maintain my own distinct touch. We blend European style with a commitment to avoiding mass production, respecting both people and nature.

We take pride in providing a brand that stands out and offers our customers something truly special, combining elegance with ethical values.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Here’s a fun fact about me that not everyone might know:

I speak over six languages—though not perfectly, I can get by in many places! I used to run my own boutiques and showrooms in Germany, where I helped establish international brands. I was born in Switzerland, experienced the Kosovo war in 1999, and had the coolest time of my youth in Portugal!

So, if you ever need someone who’s been around the world and can navigate multiple continents, I’m your person!

We also do Private Label

Pricing:

• 65
• 130

Contact Info:

• Website: https://emiliamerz.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emiliamerzofficial?igsh=MTZleDl3bDF3dTNsMw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553909111495&mibextid=LQQJ4d