Marina Larroudé

Tastemaker Series

Marina Larroudé

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.

"Similarly, with brands like SFERRA, the feel of fine linens or plush fabrics creates an immersive experience that transcends mere appearance."
– MARINA LARROUDE

Have you always had a passion for shoes and where do you draw inspiration for a new collection?

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!)

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!

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 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.