SHOP STORIES: IVORI

Our history with Carola Alexandre and her shop, Ivori, is marked by shared learning experiences, friendship, and new goals. In 2012, Carola opened the shutters of her charming shop in Barcelona's El Born neighborhood. There, amidst garments designed by Carola and by other local brands, our first shoe collection appeared.

Ivori is a magical space...a gathering place for brands that combine respect, tradition, and design. Today, after almost 10 years of admiration, Carola invites us to discover more about her project.

N: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

C: I’m passionate about music. I love Radiohead. I enjoy spending days with my partner and our dog, Camila. I like walking through Barcelona, sharing good times and good wine with my friends. I consider myself to be a very social person. I’m up for anything, like going to the theater to see a dance piece...I really enjoy Ohad Naharin’s work, for example. I like fashion, obviously! I seek inspiration in vintage stores, especially while I’m travelling, to draw from later when I’m designing the collections for my brand Ivori.

N: Do you remember when you opened Ivori? Could you tell us what led you to start your own business?

C: Of course… it was December 1st, 2012. I remember that day perfectly. I opened the shutters of my store for the first time, and I couldn't have been more excited (and nervous). I'd been thinking about opening my own business for quite some time, but I was afraid to take the leap.

Now, I can proudly say that it’s been 9 years, and I’m still here, opening the shutters and sharing moments with people who visit Ivori in search of designs that are high-quality, local, and made with love.

N: There must be a moment that you'll always remember as an entrepreneur...

C: There are so many! I love meeting the people behind each of the brands I sell, discovering what inspires them, how they got here...

That’s one of the things that I like most about my work connecting with people.

N: What do you think Naguisa's philosophy brings to Ivori, and to your customers?

C: I think Naguisa is a perfect fit for Ivori. I met Claudia and Pablo a few months after opening the store, and we’ve been working together ever since. We have the same values. Naguisa’s footwear is high-quality, super comfortable, and beautiful. My clients fall in love, and some of them buy more than one pair each season! That says it all. ;)

N: What is it like to work with the Naguisa team? What makes us different?

C: It’s a pleasure to deal with everyone on the team. Naguisa was one of the first brands I worked with, and after so many years together, the bond has only grown. Here's to many more years together, Naguisa!

N: Of all our designs to date, which is your favorite?

C: Without a doubt, the "Ila Rojo" braided model. A few years ago, I got the first edition they released, and I’ve hung onto them with great affection. They’re absolutely a staple in my wardrobe.