Alja Viryent is an independent shoe designer from Ljubljana and the woman behind the brand A. Viryent, a company specialising in unique shoe design and craftmanship.

Alja created A. Viryent six years ago after graduating from the Academy of Fine Art and Design at the University of Ljubljana with a diploma in Contemporary Shoe Design. Her name has since become well-known in Slovenian fashion circles. Alja’s career path is in line with her heritage; she comes from a family of bespoke shoemakers and her great-grandfather and grandfather contributed to her enthusiasm for the craft.

We asked Alja about her favourite things in the small Slovenian capital, and how the city influences what she does.

What distinctive traits does Ljubljana have that are hard to find anywhere else?

It combines the compactness of a small city with the facilities of a metropolis and, compared with other European capitals, remains a city on a human scale.

How have those traits influenced what you do and the way you design?

My inspiration for the shoes I make comes from everyday life in this city. Of course, product design is not just about inspiration; the footwear designer needs to have knowledge about fashion, technology, ergonomics of feet, economic trends, etc. I’m also inspired by Slovenian cultural heritage and the centuries-old tradition of making Idrija Bobbin lace. The idea for shoes with Idrija lace originates from a desire to merge the modern and traditional cultural heritage of my country.  Continue reading →