This year, Shooshoos celebrates 20 years as one of South Africa’s largest creators of handcrafted footwear for babies and toddlers. In celebration, the company is launching a new limited edition range that will be available worldwide.
This comes after numerous feats accomplished by the company’s owners, Gill Bowen and her husband Tim. After acquiring the company in 2014 and opening its first stand-alone flagship store last year (at Tygervalley Mall in the Northern Suburbs), the couple have grown their export business to more 15 countries, opened a US division, developed seasonal ranges and produced over 100 unique designs annually.
The newest collection in the Shooshoos repertoire is called Circus Range and was created by Gill alongside various specialist designers and trend experts. ‘For this range, we focused on creating a celebratory feel in line with our landmark 20th birthday celebrations and the lead up to the festive summer season,’ she says.
The 21-piece range is indeed festive and features brightly coloured shoes decorated with polka dots, metallic sparkles and animal characters. Even the product names are exciting – from Amazing Alberta and Beluga Bear to Happy Gumbo, Juggles and Madame Zucchini.
‘I see the Circus Range signifying a culmination of hard work and achievement over the past two years and the growth for the future,’ adds Gill. ‘We endeavour to produce designs for today’s fledgling fashionistas but at the same time focusing on the importance of comfort and sustainability.’
Two future endeavours we are especially looking forward to is the offshoot production of moccasins and the introduction of high-fashion products, such as high tops, to complement the more traditional – and sustainable – offerings the company is known for.
All Shooshoos products are made from eco-friendly leather containing zero toxins and are available in sizes small, medium, large and extra large for children aged zero to 24 months.
Cost R259 to R289 per pair
Get it at Tyger Valley Centre, Corner of Bill Bezuidenhout Avenue and Willie van Schoor Avenue, Bellville, shooshoos.com
Photography Shooshoos