Today we’d like to introduce you to Calleen Cordero.
Calleen started at fifteen in the shoe business in Northern California. Beginning in sales at an upscale boutique, her innate talent for fashion and her passion for well-crafted shoes began to shine through, and Calleen soon found herself elevated to the position of assistant buyer, traveling to Europe to view collections and meet with designers, all by the age of sixteen. From this precocious beginning, Calleen went on to represent some of the top names in the footwear industry (such as Kenneth Cole, Steve Madden and Dr. Marten’s) and learned about every aspect of the art and trade.
In 1999, she began designing her own line, Calleen Cordero, and started her company with two simple ideals: bring the Old World art of handmade artisan quality footwear, handbags and accessories back to the United States – and everything that she made would be as authentic as it was beautiful, as comfortable as it was luxurious, and as nourishing to the soul as it was to the eye.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’m not sure that building a business is ever a smooth road, however, being a domestic manufacturer is extremely challenging due to the lack of resources available and the high-cost of manufacturing, i.e. expensive resources, high rent, payroll, and worker’s comp, to name a few. What’s positive is that, as the manufacturer of my own designs, it’s a truly a luxury to have a hands-on creative process. I get to nurture every step of the way and be inspired by my ever-unfolding creations.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Calleen Cordero Designs – what should we know?
Calleen Cordero’s is known for her artisan leather footwear, handbags, and accessories. Each piece of the collection is highly distinguishable. Her wood-sculpted heels, hand-molded leather sandals, beautiful handbags and accessories, are all designed with exquisite leathers and embellished with her signature hardware artistry, all handmade in Los Angeles.
In 2017, we are proud to announce our newest divisions:
Cor by CC – our new modern and minimal look of Calleen Cordero, featuring footwear and handbags.
Cordero Man – our luxury men’s leather footwear, bags, and accessories.
Corsets and Crops – a high-fashion accessory collection, featuring chokers, cuffs, and other adornments.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Absolutely, there is no “I” in team. One of my main focuses of creating my own factory was not just to create beautiful designs, but to create a workplace where people are valued and supported. We here at Calleen Cordero have a sense of family and camaraderie. There’s an opportunity for everyone to have a voice and I am always open to people’s opinions. Being a small company, we all wear many hats and there are so many creative and talented people that surround me. I feel blessed.
Contact Info:
- Address: Studio City : 13019 Ventura Blvd.
Suite B Studio City, CA 91604Sunset Plaza : 8659 Sunset Blvd.
W. Hollywood, CA 90069 - Website: www.calleencordero.com,
www.corderoman.com,
www.corbycc.com,
www.corsetsandcrops.com - Phone: 818-285-8533
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/calleencordero
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/calleencordero
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/calleencordero
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/calleen-cordero-studio-city-2
Bryonys photography
Bryonys photography
Bryonys photography
Bryonys photography
Bryonys photography
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