Kendall Miles has a passion for luxury – and shoes have always been her way to express it. As part of a new CFDA series highlighting emerging designers of color, we asked Miles three questions.

To whom or what do you attribute your inspiration for designing shoes?

Shoes have always been my way of making a statement. I credit my mom for my love of luxury in women’s footwear. She possessed a really killer closet and footwear collection while I was growing up and had an amazing collection of Manolo Blahniks, René Caovillas and vintage Gucci. That exposure truly sparked my love for high-end, detail- oriented women’s footwear that made a statement.

What were the challenges you faced as an emerging designer?

If I had to pick one, I would say being a 21-year old founder, and how to conduct myself as a businesswoman. I was naïve. It was my first job, and I have never had formal work experience. I’ve never had a salary. It was a huge learning curve for me as I had to teach myself business etiquette, strategic planning, building the foundation of my business, my team, and the build-out of the manufacturing aspect of the business. Throughout all those different facets, dealing with people two to three times my age on average was definitely something difficult.

What advice quote would you give to other emerging designers like yourself who want to be successful in the fashion business?

“Sometimes it’s not about the win; it’s about not giving up.”

www.kendallmilesdesigns.com

@thekendallmiles