The Dallas Shoe Deity

Venezuelan designer Rocio Ildemaro says that shoes are her fountain of youth. After living in Milan and learning the art of bespoke shoemaking from master Italian craftsmen, the 33-year-old returned to Dallas and has been custom designing shoes for private clients for about five years. “After listening to my clients’ woes about shoes, I’ve had hundreds of muses,” she explains. This fall, her eponymous ready-to-wear shoe collection will be available at Gregory’s stores in Texas and at www.gregorysshoes.com. Shoppers can expect stilettos, boots, booties, and more, with textures that range from snakeskin to suede (and prices from $545-$1,400). Her inspiration comes from all around her, from her own closet to music—even her dreams. Speaking of dreams: Ildemaro’s dream Dallas client is a bit unexpected. No Jessica Simpson or Cindy Rachofsky for this girl. “[York Street chef] Sharon Hage,” she says, without hesitation. “I love her food. If I wasn’t a shoe designer, I would be a chef.”