Take 5 with Galia Katz

Plomo shoes popped up on my radar on a random shoe-gazing Google search and kind of took my breath away. The shoes are unique and sexy, yet look comfortable. After some research, I found out that the company was run by two women, Galia Katz and Keltse Bilbao. In between designing and jet-setting, the ladies stopped for a moment to "Take 5" for ShoesTV. Today we will hear from Galia, tommorow from Keltse.

Galia Katz grew up in Mexico City and studied fashion and textile design. She started modeling in school. Upon graduating, she headed to Paris to study French and then moved to Barcelona, Spain to work and model. When she decided to start making shoes, she simply began sketching shoes and found a manufacturer, learning the craft along the way.

How did you become a shoe designer?
I actually started in the shoe business importing Spanish shoe brands to Mexico. I was very successful until the Euro started getting so strong and expensive. The whole buying in Euros and selling in Pesos became unthinkable. I decided to make my own shoes and Plomo was born. First I did it on a very small scale, selling to small boutiques in Mexico. When I decided to go mainstream and export the brand to the United States, I invited Keltse into the project.

What inspires you in your designs?
Everything. Every day I see things that inspire me. People on the streets, traveling, music, books and women I admire inspire me. Usually when we design we are thinking about what we would love to wear.

How would you describe Plomo shoes?
They are shoes made for a fashion-oriented woman who is practical, strong and sexy.

 How do people react to Plomo shoes?
The positive reaction and enthusiasm we have had with the line in such a short period of time has been amazing. We are very grateful and excited.

 
If you were packing for a trip around the world, what 5 pairs of shoes would you bring?
1. Black suede and leather lace up high-heel Plomo Gabriela booties.
2. Cognac gladiator sandals.
3. Beige Plomo Veronique or Lorenza's white men-inspired shoes.

4. Running sneakers.
5. Grey leather Plomo Dominique wedge booties.