SHOP STORIES: ONA NEGRA

LAURA WITH HER BABY AT HER STORE FRONT DOOR WEARING SOC TRAIL

ONA NEGRA, IN CIUTAT VELLA AREA IN VALENCIA

Meet Laura, the person behind Ona Negra. After 12 years working in Madrid, in 2021 with COVID still very present, she decided to change plans. Laura returned to her hometown, Valencia, to open a small footwear store. Over the years, Ona Negra has become a beautiful space to celebrate tradition and design.

AT ONA NEGRA YOU'LL FIND DESIGNER SHOES AND UNIQUE BRANDS. NAGUISA IS ONE OF THEM.

Who is Laura?

My name is Laura, I’m from Valencia, I’m 41 years old and I just had a baby. I think that Ona Negra defines me pretty well. I started with this project in 2021, after 12 years living in Madrid and working in finance for a multinational retail company. At the time I felt I needed a change in my professional life and wanted to spend my time doing what I like wherever I like, so I decided to dive into the madness that is Ona Negra. Today I’m very happy with the project, I like connecting with my customers and the brands.

When did you open Ona Negra? Could you briefly tell us the story of your store? 

Ona Negra opened in October 2021, with the pandemic still in full swing. The store came about because I needed my own personal project and to break out of the professional rut I was in. I wanted to create a shoe and footwear space with a concept that didn’t exist in Valencia. I also feel like I’m doing my part within the city by running a small independent shop with character.

RACÓ IS ONE OF THE STYLES YOU CAN FIND IN ONA NEGRA.

A moment you will always remember...

I’ll never forget the first day I opened the doors. I sat down at my desk, surrounded by shoes, all the merchandising for my brand... I remember being scared and thinking “What have I done?!” It may not be the most positive moment, but it’s a moment I’ll never forget. 

What do you think our philosophy brings to Ona Negra? Or to your customers?

Naguisa philosophy helps reinforce the Ona Negra philosophy. Our philosophy values local products, craftsmanship, and reclaiming all the baggage from the Valencian Community in particular, and Spain in general, regarding shoes and footwear, and rediscovering its value. My customers love the Naguisa styles because they are different.

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

Working with the Naguisa team is impeccable. They are always available no matter what I need. In fact, I feel like a part of the team, truly.

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

For summer, I love the braided styles, the Racó style in particular; and I think Soc is THE ESPADRILLE to end all espadrilles. For winter, I’m especially fond of the Kaus boot. 

SOC ESPADRILLES ARE LAURA'S FAVORITE