As I sit down with Rachel Simpson, the creative force behind Rachel Simpson Shoes, I’m struck by the serendipity of our conversation. Over five years ago, when I was in the midst of wedding planning (which ultimately didn’t come to fruition), I had the pleasure of discovering Rachel’s stunning designs at a wedding show. The encounter left an indelible mark, and I’ve been a devoted fan ever since. It’s been thrilling to watch Rachel’s brand blossom into a go-to destination for style-savvy brides. Throughout this conversation, we’ll delve into her expertise on finding the perfect bridal shoe, get a sneak peek at what’s in store for the year ahead, and take a step back in time with her exquisite vintage-inspired collection of shoes and accessories.
Hi Rachel, could you firstly tell WWW readers a little bit about you?
As a shoe designer, I’ve always been driven by my passion for creating unique footwear pieces. From crafting individual shoes to leading a company, it’s a remarkable journey that still leaves me in awe. When I’m not working on the next big thing, you can find me indulging in rich cake and a good cup of coffee – two things that truly bring me joy.
What do you love about your job?
I’m fortunate to collaborate with an exceptional team and a diverse pool of skilled designers and suppliers. Our workspace is always bustling with activity, as we’re constantly welcoming new faces and nurturing our creative endeavors. I find great joy in witnessing the evolution of our designs, especially when we receive shipments of fresh samples, which sparks excitement for what’s to come.
How did you get into shoe design and into the wedding industry?
In 2008, Rachel Simpson burst onto the scene with its distinctive vintage-inspired aesthetic and the promise of shoes that could be worn again. The journey began in a humble workshop at the bottom of my garden, where I crafted bespoke shoes by hand, including my sister’s wedding shoes. This experience revealed a gap in the market for brides seeking unique, wearable footwear. As the brand grew and evolved, it expanded its team, opened new boutiques, and introduced new labels to complement its bridal collections. Despite this growth, the core values remain unchanged: beautiful, affordable, and most importantly, wearable shoes that can be treasured for years to come.
What do you aim to achieve for your clients?
As I envision it, the perfect wedding day experience for brides involves more than just physical comfort – it’s about making them feel like they’re floating on air. This is where the right shoes come in, not just providing support and relief, but also inducing a sense of awe and wonder as they glance down at their feet. A great pair of shoes should have this effect, leaving the wearer feeling empowered, confident, and utterly delighted.
What style is your work?
Elegance is woven into every stitch of my designs. I draw inspiration from the refined eras of the 1920s through to the 1950s, merging these vintage vibes with modern silhouettes and sumptuous materials. The result is a sophisticated aesthetic that exudes refinement without sacrificing whimsy. For instance, my Jasmine Antique Gold collection embodies this synergy, featuring intricate details, soft curves, and an air of understated glamour.
Could you tell us some information about your pricing?
Our shoe collection offers a range of high-quality, handmade designs priced between £150 and £180. Each pair features full leather linings and soles, crafted with attention to detail and a focus on wearable heel heights and understated style. The result is a beautiful blend of comfort, sophistication, and affordability – allowing you to enjoy a designer look at a price that’s within reach.
Tell us about your typical working day.
My day typically starts early, around 6am, with a quiet moment to myself as I prepare for the day ahead. A first cup of coffee is always a must-have, and it’s often accompanied by a gentle hum of music – the perfect soundtrack to get me moving. Before leaving for the office, I take a few minutes to fuel up with some porridge and a second cuppa, ensuring I’m well-prepared for whatever the day may bring.
Once at my desk, I dive straight into emails, jot down a to-do list, and then connect with my colleagues as they arrive. But despite having a routine, no two days are ever alike. One day might be spent developing new designs or meeting with the team to discuss project progress, while another could involve visiting customers or suppliers.
When I’m not in the office, you can find me out and about, seeking inspiration from the world around me – whether that’s a quick coffee shop visit or a longer trip to explore new design ideas.
If you could choose another role in the wedding industry what would it be?
As an unconventional entry into the wedding industry, I bring a unique perspective as a shoe designer turned wedding expert. Unlike those who began their career in wedding planning and then branched out to design shoes, my journey unfolded in reverse. Having spent years honing my craft in footwear design, I unexpectedly found myself drawn to the world of weddings. This unconventional background has allowed me to approach wedding planning from an outside-in perspective, leveraging my creative problem-solving skills and attention to detail to deliver bespoke experiences for couples.
Do you have any tips for brides when it comes to finding the perfect accessories?
When selecting your wedding shoes, consider the style of dress, time of year, and whether the ceremony is indoor or outdoor. Avoid making an impulse purchase that may leave you stuck with two pairs – one for each half of the celebration. Our collection features beautifully crafted shoes that are designed to be worn comfortably throughout the event, with many brides reporting they’ve worn theirs well into the night and onto the dance floor. Instead of stressing about finding the perfect pair, approach shoe shopping as a unique opportunity to treat yourself to your dream shoes. Have fun, be confident, and know you’ll look stunning! As Orange Blossom, we’re here to guide you through this exciting experience.
Are you seeing any new trends for the year ahead?
As the notion of tradition continues to evolve, brides have become more open to exploring non-traditional wedding colour options. Soft pastel tones and metallic hues have emerged as strong contenders, thanks to their ability to seamlessly complement a wide range of dress colours without overpowering them. These understated yet stylish choices allow brides to infuse their special day with subtle touches of personality.
Can you give us a teaser about what you are working on now?
We’re bursting with excitement about this launch! As we count down to our debut at London Bridal Fashion Week in May, it’s hard not to gush about what’s in store. Imagine a collection that embodies romance, warmth, softness and sophistication – a departure from traditional wedding shoes that will take you on a delectable journey.
How can we get in touch with you?
Rachel Simpson Shoes can be reached through various online platforms, including their website at http://www.rachelsimpsonshoes.com, as well as on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/rachelsimpsonshoes, Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/rachelshoes, and Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/rachelsimpsonshoes. For a more visual experience, you can also visit their Pinterest page at https://www.pinterest.com/bridalshoelove/. If you prefer to communicate through email, you can reach out to [email protected] or give them a call at 0121 433 5492.
The brand’s beautiful beaded rose hair clip and Catherine hairpins have left one delighted customer saying ‘Wow what an honour. Thank you SO much Rachel.’ The delicate, pretty hair accessories are certainly a hit, as are the divine metallic T-bar shoes that would pair perfectly with their wedding shoes.
One of the brand’s most stunning pieces is the Myrtle Headdress and Sparkle Comb, which will surely make any bride feel like royalty on her big day. As a Whimsical Wonderland Weddings sponsor, Rachel Simpson Shoes is proud to be a part of this special occasion.