With almost twenty five years experience in the footwear industry, designer Rachel Matthews first launched the Rachel Simpson brand back in 2008. With a unique signature style and designs which were far from the traditional wedding shoe, Rachel created waves in the bridal industry and was soon the go to brand for brides who wanted something a little different, without compromising on either style or comfort.
Prior to launching her own brand, Rachel had worked for several high street suppliers and brands designing women's, men's and children's shoes and accessories. Travelling the world developing children's sandals in Thailand, men's shoes in India and Portugal, women's occasion wear in South Africa, the Far East and of course Italy and Spain, Rachel discovered which countries did what, well (and of course rather enjoyed the inspiration along the way)!
Throughout this time Rachel's passion remained as much about how shoes were made as their design, and she had a workshop at the bottom of her garden where she created bespoke commissions. Many of these were for wedding shoes, which is what first prompted the launch of Rachel Simpson in 2008. It is the combination of this love of the art of shoe making and vintage style with her commercial experience and understanding which makes Rachel's designs not just unique but effortlessly wearable.
In 2012 she added vintage inspired footwear brand Agnes & Norman to the company's portfolio. Named after her Leicester born grandparents (a city synonymous with shoe making and where Rachel trained), this unique label's mission was to create 'shoes like they used to be' for both men and women. Think earthy soft leathers, two tone brogues and colourful t-bars and you get the vibe.
Today the new Rachel Simpson brings the best of these two brands together, creating beautifully made, vintage inspired shoes but with a fresh modern edge. Classic but on trend, timeless but different.
Rachel lives in Oxfordshire with her husband and two cats. There's no longer a workshop at the bottom of the garden... yet.
Click here to get in touch.