Inclusivity is important to all aspects of life, including shoe selection. Although there are no official statistics about shoe sizes, Healthline suggests that the average shoe size for women in the United States ranges between 8.5 and 9 based on sales data. Since inclusivity matters, one entrepreneur decided to tap into an often neglected consumer segment – which is women with larger shoe sizes.
Ahriana Edwards began developing the concept for Vaila Shoes back in 2020 and has since created a thriving company that maintains partnerships with major retailers. Vaila Shoes was created for women who are shopping for extended sizes ranging from 9 to 14. The company prides itself on providing a mix of work and play by offering shoes that can be worn in the office, after hours and more.
Edwards says the idea for Vaila Shoes was triggered by the exhaustion of never finding quality high heels in her size. “I am someone who has always had a larger foot than the average woman and for years it has left me feeling left out, frustrated, and baffled. I felt left out because the most fashionable shoes rarely came in my size,” stated Edwards. Instead of continuing to feel frustrated, Edwards addressed the issue and launched her business.
The 23-year-old CEO left her full-time job to become an entrepreneur. “The days are hard, they are long, but they are also fulfilling in the most craziest way possible,” noted Edwards in an Instagram post. After deciding to follow her dreams, Edwards pitched the brand in over 20 competitions to attract the interest of investors. One of those pitch competitions was the Black Ambition Prize, which is founded by Pharrell Williams, and Vaila Shoes received a finalist grant.
Shoppers are able to have their pick of loafers, heels, flats, sandals and more with prices starting below $100. Vaila Shoes has made such a buzz in the industry that the retail chain, Macy’s, has partnered with the brand for an exclusive collection. The Vaila x Macy’s Code Switch Spring Collection launched on April 21st. Interested customers can find the shoes at the Macy’s located in Hearld’s Square, Lenox Mall, Cumberland Mall, Stonecrest Mall and Fashion Centre at Pentagon City.
