Gloria-Rose Mackaya is a French-born, London-based footwear designer and bespoke shoemaker. She creates handmade footwear that blends experimentation with thoughtful design. With a passion for traditional craftsmanship, Gloria-Rose brings unique visions to life, one pair at a time.
Growing up across the globe, Gloria-Rose discovered her interest in footwear design during her teenage years in Los Angeles. She began by customizing old sneakers to give them a second life, and would then grow an interest in sneaker design practice as a whole, self-teaching herself how to sketch and render design digitally.
A pivotal moment came during a trip to Chicago in 2019, where Gloria-Rose was introduced to the art of bespoke shoemaking under the mentorship of designer and maker Yohance Lacour. Inspired, she pursued formal education in the field, moving to London at 18 to study footwear design at the London College of Fashion. That same year she would release her first sneaker with the brand Clints Inc as part of the Inspire Change Initiative design contest, marking an important milestone in her early design journey. Since then, Gloria-Rose has honed her skills in pattern making, hand stitching, and material innovation, combining traditional techniques with a modern aesthetic to create footwear that is both timeless and forward-thinking.
Each pair designed is crafted with care and precision, using high-quality materials and sustainable processes. Her work reflects a commitment to craftsmanship, individuality, and innovation. She explores a wide range of styles, from bespoke designs tailored to individual needs to experimental projects incorporating material manipulation, textured finishes, and emerging technologies like 3D printing.
For Gloria-Rose, shoes are more than functional items—they are a form of self-expression. Her goal is to create footwear that not only fits perfectly but also tells a story, reflecting the personality and style of the wearer.
Gloria-Rose’s work has been recognized with two design awards, highlighting her ability to push creative boundaries and deliver innovative footwear concepts.
Whether you are looking for made-to-order, bespoke shoes, have a creative project in mind, or seek a collaborative partnership, Gloria-Rose is ready to help bring your design to life.