A Longtime Shoe Man Brings His Attainable Stunners to Dallas: New Store Caters to Women

Between selling footwear to Ralph Lauren in the ’70s, starting footwear label Sam & Libby, and launching the shoe department for Esprit in the ’80s, Sam Edelman has long channeled his passion for design into creating fashionable footwear. Pieces from his eponymous brand, founded in 2004, are coveted for their chic aesthetic and attainable prices (our pick for summer: these colorful pom-pom sandals).

This month, Edelman opens his 11th boutique — the first in Texas — in NorthPark Center, stocking shoes as well as jewelry and handbags. Below, our Q&A with the designer, who chats about his love for Dallas, his favorite shoe design and what he loves most from inside his own closet.

What brought you to Texas, and why Dallas?
We are very excited to be in NorthPark. I have done many personal appearances in Dallas and have found a tremendous response, almost a cult following. I am an equestrian, and also happen to keep some of my horses in Flower Mound.

What excites you about Dallas women and their style?
The Dallas customer is fashion-forward and loves luxury. Dallas women love to shop, and I love the way they take care of themselves.

You started your brand because of a void in the shoe department. Do you think you have successfully filled that gap?
Sam Edelman has been the most exciting and successful thing that Libby [Edelman’s wife] and I have done. I think we fill a gap and bring fun and entertainment, yet we are saleable and extremely comfortable.

Best part about designing shoes.
Making women happy.

Which shoe design been the most rewarding?
The Gigi sandal, because there is no discernible price — it looks like it could be $1,200. It absolutely epitomizes our feeling for aspirational luxury.

Personal style.
Eclectic and slightly preppy, but not tricky. I like to think that I am very clean in my style. I am a mixer. I’ll mix a pair of pants from American Eagle with a custom jacket from Zegna. I also have a touch of whimsy to my style. I’ll often wear a white shirt with a pink button in the middle, or I’ll mix a funny-colored orange croc belt with pink pants.

Favorite place to travel.
Paris. I visit Milan and I love London, but there is nothing like being in Paris for a dose of fashion.

Most coveted item in your closet.
That’s a tough one, but I love my J.M. Weston shoes from Paris.

What’s next for you?
That’s the best question and hardest to answer. It’s certainly watching the young people around me continue to develop. That’s my greatest pleasure.

Sam Edelman, NorthPark Center, 214.750.4286.