Fashion
Flor de Maria is becoming a red carpet staple.
Flor de MariaRivera is constantly in production mode.
Its almost become second nature for thesports journalist turned shoemakerwhose shoe designs have been worn by everybody fromSaweetietoM.J.
Were always dropping shoes, Rivera tells Bustle of her namesake labelFlor de Maria.
With a newly-full social calendar, people are embracing holiday shoe trends like embellishment and animal print.
Rivera offers both in her latest designs, but shes also partial to a new sensation: winter brights.
Its the first time I dont have a mood board, says Rivera.
As a small business owner, Rivera experienced the challenges of lockdown firsthand.
Global supply chain issues, brought on by a dip inlabor force participation, directly impacted revenue.
The cost of materials, she says, went up 30%.
And shipping went up 40%.
I knew we were in a [lockdown], so I saw it coming, she says.
Its affected everyone, especially small businesses because our budgets are not big.
But if you plan ahead and prepare for those increased costs, youll be in a good place.
Still, shes hopeful about the future.
Ive had a few people approach me to invest in Flor de Maria, she says.
Rivera is also looking to expand into other accessories categories.
A handbag collection could be next.
I also see collaborations in the future, and eventually a brick and mortar store.
We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle’s editorial team.
