20 Best Shoe Brands in Italy: Top Italian Shoes
In the realm of superior craftsmanship and style, Italian shoe brands take center stage, offering a spectacular array of choices for the discerning shoe lover.
From luxurious designer pieces to comfortable daily wear, these brands serve the best shoes for every occasion.
This article is a researched guide to the top 20 best Italian shoemakers, each presenting unique styles, innovative and classic designs, and high-quality materials.
Scroll through our curated list of the finest Italian shoe brands and discover the perfect pair of shoes that aligns with your taste.
Exceptional Italian Shoe Brands: A Testament to Unsurpassed Artistry
Renowned for their premium quality and exclusivity, Italian shoe brands are often viewed as a mark of prestige.
This perception is largely attributable to the handmade shoes offered by these brands, which not only elevate their price point but also enhance their allure.
Below is a compilation of some of the best Italian shoemakers, without a hierarchical order – each stands out as a testament to Italian creativity and superior craftsmanship.
1. Salvatore Ferragamo
Salvatore Ferragamo, an iconic name in the realm of Italian footwear, undeniably stands as a beacon of luxury in the fashion industry.
Not only does this iconic fashion house produce an array of footwear, but its portfolio also includes ready-to-wear apparel and high-end leather goods.
The brand’s success stems from Ferragamo’s unique blend of creative and scientific methodologies in crafting footwear, bringing forth innovations such as the wedge and cage heel.
These groundbreaking designs propelled the company from a single designer’s dream to a global luxury empire.
Ferragamo began his illustrious career in Naples, Italy, before venturing to the United States. Here, he launched his brand in 1923 with the Hollywood Boot Shop.
His innovative designs, especially his trendsetting wedge shoes, quickly gained acclaim, making Ferragamo a household name among high-end Italian shoe brands.
This recognition was further solidified through collaborations with Hollywood’s elite, including Judy Garland and Marilyn Monroe, earning him the title “Cobbler to the Stars.”
Salvatore Ferragamo, therefore, stands as a paragon of the best Italian leather shoe brands, offering a timeless collection that impeccably fuses creativity and elegance.
Whether you’re in search of men’s or women’s designer footwear, Ferragamo offers stylish, high-quality options that will undoubtedly capture your heart.
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2. Giuseppe Zanotti
Originating from Italy, Giuseppe Zanotti is a highly regarded designer brand in the global fashion industry, celebrated for its luxurious footwear along with a diverse range of fashion accessories, including handbags, jewelry, and premium leather garments.
The brand has been setting fashion trends for over two decades, drawing inspiration from the rich Italian tradition and marrying it with a distinctive contemporary appeal.
The creativity and enduring passion of the brand’s eponym, Giuseppe Zanotti, sits at the heart of its success, transforming the brand into a leading luxury powerhouse.
The brand’s signature high-quality style is an amalgamation of modern femininity with a hint of sensual allure and rock and roll, embodied in its sculpted, jewel-studded heels that have become nothing less than iconic in the world of fashion.
These unique creations are coveted globally by fashion-forward women, making their way from runway shows to red carpet events and city streets.
Zanotti’s journey into shoe crafting began in 1985, but his namesake brand didn’t launch until a decade later, in 1995. The following year, he invested in his first shoe manufacturing facility located in San Mauro Pascoli, marking the start of a successful era in his career.
His flamboyant and jeweled footwear designs quickly gained fame and financial success, allowing him to expand his operations by 2001 with a bigger, state-of-the-art factory.
Over the course of the years, the brand gained international recognition, with boutiques spanning across continents from the United States to Asia, and the Middle East to Russia, consolidating Zanotti’s standing as a global powerhouse in the luxury shoe industry.
Confused about Italian sizes? Try our Easy Italian Size to US and UK Conversion Tool.
3. Bruno Magli
Bruno Magli, a respected pillar in the realm of Italian shoe brands, has been renowned for its sophisticated and elegant footwear since its inception in 1936.
This prestigious brand masterfully combines time-honored traditions with contemporary innovation, with each shoe meticulously handcrafted to precise perfection.
Bruno Magli’s collection, renowned for its clean lines and intricate details, epitomizes Italian glamour, embodying luxury and style.
Over nearly a century, Bruno Magli has evolved into an iconic Italian shoe brand, distinguishing itself through its footwear’s superior quality and design. It has firmly etched its place among the most revered Italian dress shoe brands, serving both women and men with exquisite craftsmanship.
Bruno Magli’s footwear has graced the feet of many celebrities, including Sophia Loren, Christina Onassis, and even Princess Margaret of England, helping the brand achieve global recognition.
The brand’s adherence to fantastic style, elegance, and quality has allowed it to maintain its classic Italian allure, making it a top contender in the Italian shoe industry.
Its enduring success also lies in its expansive collection that spans from classic loafers and lace-up sneakers to other timeless pieces, providing options for those searching for the finest Italian footwear.
Beyond shoes, Bruno Magli also offers a wide range of high-quality accessories and bags, adding another facet to its luxury offerings. Thus, Bruno Magli remains a steadfast choice for those who appreciate the exquisite blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern sophistication.
Suggested Reading: 10 Best Italian Jewelry Brands: Unmatched Beauty & Craftsmanship
4. Ermenegildo Zegna
Ermenegildo Zegna, a beacon of Italian luxury established in Piedmont in 1910, is renowned for designing shoes embodying sophisticated masculinity.
This premier Italian brand is celebrated for its craftsmanship, utilizing premium materials to create an extensive collection of footwear. This array of stylish options, ranging from sleek loafers and polished dress shoes to contemporary sneakers, captures the essence of modern male aesthetics.
When it comes to Italian leather shoes, Ermenegildo Zegna is a name you can’t ignore.
This brand, specializing exclusively in menswear, is your go-to destination for the finest Italian dress shoes, ensuring the right fit, design, and unparalleled quality. So, for the discerning gentleman seeking the very best in Italian footwear, Ermenegildo Zegna is a brand to keep on the radar.
The standout feature of Ermenegildo Zegna’s footwear lies in the finer details. The range extends from sporty sneakers to refined suede shoes, from durable brogues with silicone-dipped soles to classic men’s shoes with a modern twist.
Examples of the latter include their black patent leather shoes with a central buckle and distinctively colored men’s shoes, such as blue leather shoes with green soles. With such a diverse and quality-driven collection, it’s no wonder that Ermenegildo Zegna remains a best-selling Italian shoe brand globally.
5. Gucci
Gucci is an iconic Italian luxury fashion house founded in Florence, Italy, in 1921 by Guccio Gucci. This brand has been a leader in the fashion industry for almost a century and is renowned for its luxurious and timeless designs.
It is one of the world’s most recognizable luxury brands, offering a wide range of products, including shoes. Their shoes are known for their high-quality craftsmanship, exquisite details, and impeccable style.
Italy is renowned for its excellent quality craftsmanship, and shoes from Italian brands reflect this. From traditional designs to modern details, Italy-based shoe brands use the finest materials, such as leather, suede, and canvas, to create exceptional shoes that perfectly blend style and comfort.
They are available in various styles, from classic loafers to sleek ankle boots and sneakers. Gucci shoes are the perfect blend of timeless elegance and modern sophistication, offering a unique and stylish addition to any wardrobe.
6. Sergio Rossi
Sergio Rossi, a brand with deep roots in Italian heritage, is known for its artistic design and meticulous construction of footwear.
Founded in the 1950s in Cesena, Romagna, by the son of a cobbler from San Mauro Pascoli, the brand soon became part of the prestigious Gucci Group. Sergio Rossi cultivated his passion for form and design in Milan before selling his handcrafted models to boutiques in Bologna in the 1960s.
As the brand advanced, it showcased its strong emphasis on femininity and style. The blend of avant-garde designs and traditional Italian craftsmanship in each Sergio Rossi shoe guarantees a luxurious experience with every step.
It’s not just the designs but the creativity and skills involved in their making that have made this brand globally renowned. This reputation was cemented in the 1970s when Sergio Rossi began partnerships with iconic fashion houses such as Gianni Versace and Dolce & Gabbana.
Sergio Rossi’s brilliance is exemplified in his widely recognized shoe designs, like the 1966 Opanca and the highly coveted Godiva heels. These creations reflect Rossi’s mastery, further solidifying the brand’s status in the realm of high-end women’s footwear.
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7. Fendi
Fendi is a globally renowned Italian luxury fashion house that produces leather goods, shoes, and ready-to-wear apparel. Founded in 1925 in Rome, Fendi is known for its iconic “FF” logo, and high-end designs embody Italian glamour.
Fendi shoes are made with high-quality materials and impeccable craftsmanship, featuring a sleek and modern design, usually with a pointed toe and slim silhouette.
Italian shoe brands are renowned for their luxurious materials, such as fine leathers, suedes, velvets, and patent leathers. With a wide range of colors available in different styles and heel heights, these Italian shoes are perfect for any occasion.
Fendi is one of the top Italian fashion footwear brands and offers stylish and comfortable options for modern fashionistas!
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8. Prada
Prada, a Milan-based fashion house established in 1912, is a multifaceted luxury brand with a wide range of products from fashion and shoes to leather goods, cell phones, watches, and perfumes.
Thanks to the creative vision of Miuccia Prada, the brand entered the footwear market in 1983, demonstrating an innovative approach to crafting shoes from plastic, nylon, and leather.
Today, Prada’s shoes are among the most sought-after globally, reflecting the brand’s unique perspective on modern society.
This Italian women’s shoe brand began to redefine shoemaking with its Linea Rossa collection in the 1990s, celebrated for its minimalist and simplistic styles.
Prada’s ingenuity led to the creation of the world’s first hybrid sneakers, setting the trend long before the concept became widespread. Introduced in 1998, these sneakers quickly became a staple for fashion-forward individuals.
Through the years, Prada has continued to reshape fashion norms, launching iconic shoes like the Flaming Heels and Silk Boots, further solidifying its status as a trendsetter in the footwear industry.
9. Valentino
Valentino is an Italian luxury fashion house founded by Valentino Garavani in 1960. It is headquartered in Milan and is considered one of the world’s most renowned luxury brands.
Valentino is an iconic global fashion brand known for its timeless elegance and sophistication. Their shoes are characterized by their use of luxurious materials, exquisite craftsmanship, attention to detail, and vibrant colors.
Valentino’s shoes are designed with an eye for fashion, comfort, and quality and are crafted to make each pair an individual work of art.
The shoes feature a variety of styles and designs, from classic to modern, and are crafted with leather, suede, and velvet. The shoes also feature an array of embellishments and detailing, along with a range of heels, from flats to stilettos.
Valentino shoes are sure to turn heads, perfect for any occasion, from casual to formal.
10. Santoni
Established in 1975 by Andrea Santoni, Santoni Shoes stands as a premier name in the Italian luxury footwear industry, cherished worldwide for its handmade designs.
The brand showcases a diverse portfolio of footwear, featuring everything from their signature loafers, chic lace-ups, and snug casuals to fashionable winter boots and driving shoes.
Hailed as the royalty of Italian leather shoes, Santoni sets a high bar for ageless design and supreme quality. The brand’s offerings transcend men’s footwear, extending to stylish footwear for all occasions.
With a range that includes boots, loafers, sneakers, sandals, slip-ons, and high heels, Santoni is a testament to the distinctive “Made in Italy” quality and style.
In addition to shoes, Santoni offers an elegant array of accessories, including belts, bags, and small leather goods, reflecting the brand’s commitment to aesthetic refinement and top-tier craftsmanship.
Santoni’s dress shoes and sophisticated footwear range stand unparalleled for those desiring to upgrade their corporate style. Their unique designs, like the Double Buckle, Suede Chelsea Boot, Penny Loafers, and iconic Double Monk Strap design, showcase the classic Italian style and individuality.
Santoni operates from a state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly factory in Corridonia (province of Macerata in the Marche region), demonstrating its commitment to eco-friendly practices while maintaining artisanal craftsmanship.
The synergy of traditional skills and modern machinery in this facility ensures every pair of shoes is meticulously customized and precise. Emerging from a modest family shop in the 1970s, Santoni has evolved into one of Italy’s most coveted luxury handmade shoe brands.
11. Ace Marks
Ace Marks, a product of deep insight into the flaws of the luxury footwear industry, was established with the intention of bringing change.
They recognized a flawed system where men were left with the option of purchasing mediocre shoes, paying more for slight cosmetic enhancement, or facing astronomical costs for premier brands. This observation led them to the conclusion by the end of 2012 that high-quality shoes shouldn’t be out of reach.
Propelled by this conviction and aided by cutting-edge innovative technology, they embarked on a mission to cut out middlemen and their hefty markups, allowing consumers to enjoy more affordable prices.
The objective was straightforward: to create an exceptional, handcrafted shoe that could stand tall amongst top brands but at a price accessible to many.
In pursuit of this excellence, the founders journeyed to Italy, examining countless options in their search for the extraordinary. The ultimate answer was found in a small factory operated by a family of 4th generation artisans.
This collaboration resulted in shoes that combined a modern aesthetic with classic comfort, using only the best materials and craftsmanship.
Driven by the desire to meet the needs of the modern gentleman, Ace Marks created a reasonably priced, ultra-modern, and supremely comfortable dress shoe.
Regardless of whether an individual meeting is wearing it their first client or the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, Ace Marks shoes certainly add a touch of luxury.
Considered a leader among Italian boot brands, Ace Marks is revered for its lace-ups and cap-toe Oxfords. The brilliance of their offerings stems not only from the design but also from the unique color palettes and innovative leather techniques applied.
These qualities have earned Ace Marks a spot among the most recognized Italian shoe brands.
12. Tod’s
Tod’s is an Italian luxury brand founded in the 1920s by Filippo Della Valle. It is based in the Marche region of Italy and is renowned for its high-quality shoes and leather goods.
Tod’s offers a wide range of products, from casual to formal shoes, as well as handbags, purses, belts, and other accessories. The brand is distinguished by its use of fine materials, like full-grain leather, and its iconic rubber pebble sole. The shoes are crafted with attention to detail, creating a unique and timeless style.
Tod’s iconic moccasins and loafers have become a symbol of Italian craftsmanship and quality worldwide. These shoes are known for their comfort, durability, and elegance, making them a perfect choice for any wardrobe.
13. Bottega Veneta
Bottega Veneta is a luxury Italian fashion house specializing in leather goods, shoes, and ready-to-wear apparel. Above all, Bottega Veneta (founded in 1966 in Vicenza, Italy) is renowned for its intricate leather designs and luxurious fabrics.
14. Dolce & Gabbana
Dolce & Gabbana is an Italian luxury fashion house founded in Milan in 1985 by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, the brand’s main designers. The brand is known for its unique, classic Italian style and glamour.
The shoes produced by Dolce & Gabbana are highly sought-after for their luxurious and sophisticated design. They are crafted using the finest quality materials and intricate feature detailing, such as embroidery, beading, and studs.
Dolce & Gabbana’s shoes are available in classic Italian leather, suede, and exotic skins like python and crocodile. They come in various heel heights, from flats to stilettos, and feature eye-catching accents like buckles, bows, and studs.
The brand’s signature look is timeless elegance and modern sophistication. Their shoes are perfect for any occasion and will make a statement.
15. Versace
Versace is an Italian luxury fashion house founded in 1978 by Gianni Versace in Milan. The company produces a wide range of luxury fashion items, including shoes. Versace shoes are renowned for their combination of quality craftsmanship and modern design.
The brand is renowned for its bold, eye-catching prints, often including the iconic Medusa logo. Versace shoes have luxurious leather, suede, velvet, intricate feature detailing, and glamorous accents.
The shoes are available in various styles, from classic pumps and sandals to modern sneaker silhouettes. To complete a luxurious look, Versace offers a range of accessories, such as belts, wallets, and handbags.
The company also produces a range of fragrances and beauty products. Versace is headquartered in Milan, Italy, one of the world’s most recognizable luxury fashion houses.
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16. Fratelli Rossetti
Born out of passion and perseverance, Fratelli Rossetti, a revered family-run Italian shoe company, has been crafting luxury footwear since 1953.
After World War II, Renzo Rossetti took a leap of faith, transforming a small workshop into a globally recognized brand that signifies Italian craftsmanship. He tirelessly worked, shaping the company into a familial entity where skilled artisans collaborated, fostering growth.
Renzo’s children, nurtured within the expansive workshops, found a second home there, cultivating their own passion for the family business.
Situated in Parabiago, near Milan, Fratelli Rossetti has earned worldwide acclaim for its timeless designs, exceptional workmanship, and unrivaled comfort.
Their signature “Brera” moccasin, a tassel-adorned, laceless shoe that debuted in 1961, is still a top-selling product and embodies the brand’s mastery. This shoe, often distinguished by vibrant hues, is widely regarded as a casual wear staple and represents the brand’s creativity.
Fratelli Rossetti now operates under the stewardship of Renzo’s sons – Diego, Dario, and Luca, who continue to uphold the brand’s legacy of crafting luxurious Italian leather footwear and accessories for both men and women.
This family-owned brand, the first Italian label to open a store on Manhattan’s prestigious Madison Avenue, showcases an impressive collection of shoes, accessories, bags, and clothing. The brand is a true testament to the refined taste of Italian fashion.
17. Miu Miu
Miu Miu is one of the most prominent brands of shoes originating in Italy.
Founded in 1993, the company has become known for its creative and contemporary designs that embody modern Italian fashion. Miu Miu specializes in shoes, handbags, and ready-to-wear apparel – offering products that promote their playful and edgy style.
18. Giorgio Armani
As an iconic symbol of Italian luxury fashion, Giorgio Armani’s shoe line exemplifies a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary design. The brand offers a sophisticated selection of footwear, ranging from sleek loafers to polished heels, each exuding a distinctive charm.
Known for its exquisite craftsmanship and commitment to quality, Giorgio Armani shoes are designed with the modern and fashion-forward individual in mind, providing a perfect marriage of style and comfort.
19. Alberto Fermani
Established in 1960, Alberto Fermani is a renowned Italian brand celebrated for its artisanal footwear. The brand stands out for its meticulous attention to detail and adherence to traditional Italian craftsmanship.
From chic ankle boots to stylish sandals, Alberto Fermani’s footwear carries a sense of understated luxury and refinement, characterized by high-quality materials, innovative designs, and unparalleled comfort.
20. Chiara Ferragni
Founded by world-famous fashion influencer Chiara Ferragni, this brand captures the essence of contemporary fashion in its footwear line. Chiara Ferragni shoes, often characterized by bold designs and glittery finishes, are a favorite amongst fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
Offering a diverse array of styles, from vibrant sneakers to flamboyant heels, this brand represents a youthful and adventurous approach to fashion, making a strong statement in the global fashion industry.
Italian Shoe Brands FAQ
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about shoe brands made in Italy.
What are the most popular Italian shoes for women?
Italian shoes for women are known for their elegance, femininity, and high-quality materials. Some of the most popular Italian shoe brands for ladies are Giuseppe Zanotti, Gucci, Sergio Rossi, Fendi, Prada, Valentino, Tod’s, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Bottega Veneta.
You can find a variety of styles, such as sandals, wedges, heels, and boots, made from luxurious materials like leather, suede, and velvet.
Remember that the best Italian shoes brands often carry a higher price tag, a reflection of their superior quality and expert craftsmanship. Still, they are often considered a worthwhile investment for their timeless style and durability.
What distinguishes Italian designer shoes from other types of footwear?
Italian designer shoes are distinguished from other types of footwear by their stylish and original design, high-quality materials, and impeccable craftsmanship. They are often made from genuine leather and suede, contributing to their durability and comfort.
Additionally, Italian designer shoes often have a timeless elegance that transcends trends and fads, making them a worthwhile investment for their style and durability.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Italy has long been celebrated as a leading powerhouse in the world of fashion and craftsmanship, particularly in the realm of footwear.
These 20 Italian shoes brands embody the essence of the best Italian fashion, showcasing the refinement and elegance that the Italian culture is known for. These companies, created by some of the most famous Italian shoe designers, ensure superior quality, comfort, and style.
Whether you’re looking for your new favorite pair of shoes or simply exploring the magnificent world of Italian footwear, this selection provides an array of choices to satisfy every taste.
These designers don’t just create shoes. They craft pieces of art that carry a piece of Italian culture with every step. So why not invest in the best, and experience the enduring allure of Italian shoes yourself?
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