Papucei
Papucei is a Romanian women's shoe brand created by designers Dan and Angela Vasiliu, whose shoe company dates back to 1990. It makes colourful, one of a kind designs in its own factory in north east Romania and sells them in Romania and abroad.
| Company founded | 1990 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Dan and Angela Vasiliu |
| Region | North east Romania |
| Online shop | Since 2006 |
| Website | papucei.ro |
What is Papucei?
Papucei, a Romanian word meaning little shoes, is a women's footwear brand from north east Romania, a region with a long tradition of shoemaking. It was created by designers Dan and Angela Vasiliu, who founded their shoe company in 1990, the year after the Romanian Revolution, and opened their own factory.
Products and positioning
Papucei is known for expressive, one of a kind designs. Collections vary in shape, colour combinations and leathers, and the brand uses materials in unconventional ways:
- Mixed textures and leathers
- Bold, graphic prints
- Strong colour combinations
Production takes place in the company's own factory, which gives the designers control over craftsmanship and allows them to search for new suppliers and materials each season.
Distribution
The brand's online shop, Papucei.ro, opened in 2006 and is considered one of Romania's first online shoe stores. Papucei has presented collections in Milan, Paris, Düsseldorf and Amsterdam, including at the Modefabriek trade fair, and is sold in countries including Italy, Japan, Canada and Australia.
Why it matters
Papucei is one of the few Romanian footwear manufacturers to build an international design brand of its own, combining in house production with early adoption of direct online sales.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Papucei from?
Papucei is a Romanian brand that makes its women's shoes in its own factory in north east Romania.
Who founded Papucei?
Papucei was created by designers Dan and Angela Vasiliu, who founded their shoe company in 1990.