29 October 2026International edition
Vol. I · No.
29 October 2026
AI IN FASHION
DAILY
The daily briefing on AI in the fashion business
Where fashion meets artificial intelligence.
Footwear

Ilio Smeraldo

Italy

Ilio Smeraldo is an Italian footwear brand that debuted in 1979, making shoes handmade in Italy. Its range includes boots, ankle boots, pumps and sandals for women, as well as men's styles shown at Pitti Uomo.

Facts
Debut1979
OriginItaly
ManufacturingHandmade in Italy
Trade fairPitti Uomo
Websiteiliosmeraldo.com
Segment
Premium
Categories
Footwear
Sales channels
WholesaleE-commerce

What is Ilio Smeraldo?

Ilio Smeraldo is an Italian shoe brand that made its debut in 1979. Its footwear is handmade in Italy with locally sourced materials, and the brand presents men's collections at Pitti Uomo in Florence.

Products and positioning

Ilio Smeraldo offers premium footwear with a focus on craftsmanship rather than logos. Its women's range, aimed at customers looking for durable, well made shoes, covers:

  • Knee high boots and ankle boots
  • Pumps and stilettos
  • Sandals

The brand drew international attention with a capsule of seven styles designed together with seven fashion influencers and sold exclusively through Moda Operandi, with prices ranging from about 295 to 410 US dollars.

Distribution

Ilio Smeraldo is sold through online luxury retailers and multibrand stores, and also appears on resale platforms.

Why it matters

Ilio Smeraldo is an example of a long established Italian shoemaker using collaborations with digital creators and exclusive e-commerce partnerships to reach a new, younger international audience.

Frequently asked questions

Where are Ilio Smeraldo shoes made?

Ilio Smeraldo shoes are handmade in Italy with locally sourced materials.

What does Ilio Smeraldo sell?

Ilio Smeraldo sells boots, ankle boots, pumps and sandals for women, as well as men's shoes.

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