“I am a huge believer in tradition, quality and craftsmanship; Italy has a long and well documented heritage in handmade expertly crafted shoes.”
BELIENI is a US-based brand specialized in luxury sneakers, handmade in Italy by sneaker manufacturer. Realizing a gap in the market with a lack of variety and subtle styling of high-end men’s shoes, designer Belieni sought out to shake up the world of luxury footwear, especially for men with a larger step.
THE STORY
Challenge
“I started BELIENI because I saw a lack of variety in men’s luxury sneakers, specifically for larger foot sizes. So I began the process of coming up with a unique, versatile design with subtle detailing, able to be dressed up or down if needed, and created the exquisite design cues in each Calibre shoe.”
-Belieni Stevens, US
Outcome
The Calibre high-top sneakers, handcrafted in high quality suede and nappa with copper-plated hardware and rubber soles in 4 colours – Black, White, Wine Red, and Steel Blue, have since garnered much attention. More colourways, a women’s line, and low-top designs are in the making.
Project phases
- Design
- Prototyping & Sampling
- Packaging
- Production
First encounter with ISM
The initial communication and prompt responses from ISM along with their willingness to help a new brand is what led me to choosing ISM as my sneaker manufacturer.
– Belieni Stevens
Design
Because I reside in the US, I had difficulty in locating a manufacturer in Italy even after numerous trade shows; none of which fit what we needed before coming across ISM.
Prototyping & Sampling
After three iterations to incorporate the materials perfectly, my sneaker manufacturer, ISM, created the final prototypes consisting of quilted and woven leathers, specially-sourced rubber soles, copper-plated hardware with specific logo details.
I would have to say the visual confirmation of my shoes, actually being able to hold and wear my design has to be the most memorable moment of BELIENI.
Packaging
Packaging consists of a brushed cotton dust bag and matte black shoe box with plated logos. With the broad shoe size runs, 2 types of boxes were made for EU sizes 39-44 and 45-49 respectively. The first 100 pairs also came with a limited edition, numbered brand card.
My sneaker manufacturer, ISM team, was very helpful and full of industry advice, informing me of best practices. They made sourcing materials effortless.
Production
The first production of the Calibre lace-up sneakers are crafted with woven suede front, fine quilted nappa leather and insoles, croc-stamped straps, copper-plated hardware, and custom logo details. The black version in particular features a specially-sourced rubble sole with splatter paint effect.
I personally feel that I am close with the ISM staff that I work with. We have built a close working and personal relationship which goes a long way.
