Local businesswoman talks about innovative Brazilian screw-on heels
KYALAMI – Read what innovative businesswoman Susan Nxumalo of Stiefelmann Shoes South Africa is up to ...
With shoe comfort at the core of her business concept, businesswoman and mother of three, Susan Nxumalo of Stiefelmann Shoes South Africa, is showing women how to step into a new pair of shoes by simply changing the heel.
“I came across this brand when I was on holiday with my son a year and a half ago. I wanted to do some shopping and there this shop was. I was so fascinated by the shoes and how they could change from heels to flats in a matter of you screwing it. I was having a dull day but I could not believe when I was introduced to this shoe,” Nxumalo said.
She said Stiefelmann Shoes are designed in Brazilian and can be transformed from flats to high heels in a matter of minutes depending on your mood.
“The new transformable shoes can be easily interchanged without any hassle. These shoes are meant to keep women away from carrying more than one pair of shoes, especially for those who can’t stand high heels the whole day.
“I believe that is not healthy to be on your heels most of the day. I bought these shoes after being advised by my chiropractor to change the shoes I wore because they were affecting my health.”
She said the shoe is not designed to have an over the top look as they are medical and versatile.
“The shoe has a flexible insole and an elastic junction in the vamp which allows a closed shoe with a heel to be converted into a flat shoe or visa versa. With six heel height variations, shoe lovers can now have six shoes in one which is a bargain if I have to say so myself.”
Priding herself that they are the first innovative shoe in the country, Nxumalo stated that after six failed business ventures, this one was the first venture she felt was the one to succeed. “It has been a long-time dream to launch this innovative shoe and to see it come to [reality] warms my heart as to show that all my sacrifices were not in vain.”
The changeable heels fit easily in handbags which allow for the heel removal and replacement to be a swift and effortless conversion.
Nxumalo explained that they are currently selling online, however, they have a pop-up store at the Mall of Africa until the end of December. “Us being here, we want people to physically see our shoes. Our customers can touch and see what these shoes are and how these shoes can benefit them.
“Business is not easy and I must say growing up in a business-minded family, I was bound to be in the business world. My mother taught me how to convert the little you had into more profit which I apply in my business endeavours every time.”
The prices for these innovative shoes range from R1 200 to R1 500 per pair.
“I feel happy and satisfied that the shoes I am selling will make a difference in another woman’s life. “I know how it is to feel miserable wearing a high heel shoe the whole day or carrying another pair just to relieve yourself from the pain.”
