Meet the Woman Who Made Sol Sana a Cult Footwear Brand

In honour of Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power’s book, The Career Code: Must-Know Rules for a Strategic, Stylish, and Self-Made Career ($22), we’re continuing on with an interview series featuring 17 questions (in honour of the book’s 17 chapters) about the work lives of the most inspirational female leaders in the fashion industry. We’ve tapped Pip Edwards, Rebecca Minkoff, Sally Singer, Rachel Zoe, and more. Up next? Shoe designer Sara Caverley. 

We have Sara Caverley to thank for designing and producing high-quality women’s shoes that are equally stylish and affordable. The self-taught footwear designer brought her brand Sol Sana to life in 2010, and prides herself on using the highest quality fabrics, materials, and trims for trend-forward women’s shoes.

The label is growing momentum steadily as it’s now available in a range of boutiques in store and online, such as Styletread, Wanted, Glue Store, and Tuchuzy. You’ll also find the brand stocked at big retailers such as David Jones and The Iconic.

Keep scrolling to read our latest installment of Career Code.

“I’m a self-taught footwear designer and creative director that is lucky enough to do what I love every day.”

“How extensive our footwear ranges are. We design four seasonal collections per across eight regions as well as collaborations, exclusives, and multiple private labels. I’m also still really hands-on as I’m literally involved in every aspect of the business.”

“My first job was in a surf store in the suburbs of Sydney, so I probably would have worn some kind of surf T-shirt and shorts combo.”

“I am all for the girl boss, so I would love to catch up with someone like Leandra Medine (from Man Repeller) for a cocktail or two, and to talk shop.”

“Instagram, Footwear News, Women’s Wear Daily, Drapers, Who What Wear Australia (one of our favourites in the office), and The Business of Fashion.”

“I don’t believe in regrets. Sometimes I think back on past career decisions thinking it might not have been the best one at the time, but I am a firm believer that things always have a way of working themselves out if you can learn from your past experiences.”

"Someone who’s insanely creative and driven—someone who understands our brand, goals, and vision for the future. Bonus points for a great shoe wardrobe.”

“I live in sneakers and/or slides. Who needs to wear heels to feel empowered?”

“After I have had my morning coffee, I think they would say I’m approachable, dedicated, hard-working, and always open to offer advice and guidance.”

“A good gym sweat session always sorts me out. It allows me to re-centre and think clearer.”

“Always end the relationship on amicable terms. Never burn bridges because the industry is smaller than you think.”

“Sushi or salad, but I snack all day long so I eat a relatively light and healthy lunch.”

“The most common mistake I see in new employees is they sometimes expect to land their dream role on day one. Take on every task like you own it and you will soon see the wheels of progression turn.”

“Man Repeller, The New York Times Fashion, and naturally Who What Wear Australia is top of my favourites and go-to accounts. I love the fresh approach to snapping street fashion and the fashion weeks coverage.”

“Start the day with coffee, end the day with wine.”

“Always stay true to yourself and follow your instincts.”

“We are currently in the final stages of finalising the Winter 2018 range for the southern hemisphere—this is my first collection that has 100 percent been designed from our New York office. I’m excited to see the response when we take this collection to market next month.”

Shop the book:

Opening image: Courtesy of Sol Sana 

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