tastemaker series
marina larroude
Co-Founder of Larroudé
What inspired you to start Larroudé?
The idea for Larroudé was born from a deep desire to create something joyful and accessible—high-quality shoes designed for every woman. After years in the fashion industry at Teen Vogue and Barneys New York, both Ricardo and I suddenly found ourselves unemployed for the first time in 20 years. This unexpected moment gave us the perfect opportunity to channel all the knowledge and experience we had gained into something fresh and exciting. We envisioned Larroudé as a brand that seamlessly blends fun with function, offering high-fashion, quality craftsmanship at an accessible price point. Our goal was to create a wardrobe experience that empowers women to feel stylish and confident, no matter the occasion.
Have you always had a passion for shoes?
Yes, absolutely! Shoes have always held a special place in my heart. I remember going with my grandma to buy Melissa sandals when I was just 5, 6, or 7 years old—those early memories sparked my love for footwear. While I’ve worked in fashion for decades, my true love affair has always been with shoes (and jewelry!)
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Where do you draw inspiration for a new collection?
Inspiration comes from everywhere. I’ve been fortunate to travel and experience so many different cultures, and each one feeds into my creative process. I often draw inspiration from women—their daily lives, their big life moments like weddings or graduations, and their everyday routines, whether it’s work or school drop-offs. I strive to create something special for both their social occasions and everyday moments. Women are, without a doubt, my biggest inspiration!
"Similarly, with brands like SFERRA, the feel of fine linens or plush fabrics creates an immersive experience that transcends mere appearance."
– MARINA LARROUDE
How do you define luxury, and how does that influence your design process?
For me, luxury is about the experience—how something makes you feel when you wear it or use it. It’s about the highest quality of the product. It’s the craftsmanship, the comfort, the design, and ultimately the emotion it evokes. At Larroudé, we’re committed to offering luxury in the sense that every shoe is crafted with care, attention to detail, and innovation. Our production process in Brazil allows us to combine high-quality craftsmanship with comfort technologies, like the Larroudé cloud cushioning.
How do you incorporate functional innovations like the Larroudé cloud cushioning into your designs?
Comfort has always been a priority for us. We wanted to create shoes that you can wear all day without feeling like you have to compromise on style/design/fashion. The Larroudé cloud cushioning is a perfect example of that—it’s about innovation that enhances the experience of wearing the shoe. We work closely with our production team to make sure that every pair is designed with both comfort and craftsmanship in mind. That means testing materials, making sure the fit is just right, and always keeping our customers' needs in mind while staying true to the brand's playful and chic aesthetic.
What makes the perfect pair of shoes, and how do you ensure Larroudé offers both style and comfort?
The perfect pair of shoes makes you feel powerful and confident while also being comfortable enough to wear for hours. It’s beautiful and wearable for long hours. At Larroudé, we balance these elements by blending form and function. Every design starts with an aesthetic vision—whether it's the shape or construction of the shoe: platform, flat boots, or ballet flats. Then, we layer in the technical aspects, like the perfect fit, supportive heels, and cushioning. Our customers want to look great but also live in their shoes, and we’re always testing to make sure both elements are present.
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How do you think Larroudé and SFERRA align in terms of creating a luxurious experience?
The sensory elements of design—texture, material, and how something feels against your skin—are essential in defining true luxury, whether in fashion or home decor. In both areas, it's not just about appearance; it's about quality and longevity. A high-quality product can last a lifetime. At Larroudé, for example, the softness of the leather or the padding in the sole is just as important as the visual design. It’s this combination of beauty and comfort that fosters a deeper connection with the product. Similarly, with brands like SFERRA, the feel of fine linens or plush fabrics creates an immersive experience that transcends mere appearance.
