With their stylish footwear brand Espadril, Rizqah Isaacs and Patricia Terre are giving the traditional Spanish shoe a handmade African twist. They started off importing 150 pairs of espadrilles, which they sold in markets around Cape Town. After that they brought 300 pairs. Once they'd sold them all, they started making their own.
"Our journey has evolved in such a way that we are now customising almost every pair that gets made in our studio in Bree Street," they say. "Our clients visit us for a pink gin and tonic and enjoy the process of designing their own shoe."
We asked the creative duo to share a few of their favourite things and tell us about the fashion finds they're currently coveting.
TERRE
My favourite designer of all time is Alber Elbaz for Lanvin.
My current favourite perfume is Mojave Ghost by Byredo; it's powerful without being overwhelming.
I'm listening to Mac Miller Dang!. It makes my soul smile.
I am currently eyeing a Gucci Disco bag, I love it in a bright colour like red or yellow. I prefer small bags over big heavy ones. Also easier to manoeuvre when moving around the city with a toddler. If money were not an issue, I would definitely buy an artwork by William Kentridge. I discovered him years ago when I moved to SA and went to see the opera The Magic Flute where he did all the back drops. I fell in love instantly.
ISAACS:
At the moment, I'm obsessed with The Naomi - Wild Things skirt by Réalisation Par. Please Santa ... I have been good this year! Every woman should have a pair of Redone Levis and a few pairs of espadrilles in their wardrobe.
The cosmetics I swear by are Eve Lom face cleanser, Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair, and the Eve Lom SPF 50 to protect my skin against the sun and pollution.
I am currently reading Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike. So inspiring.
My favourite city is Cape Town, of course. It's not too big or too small, one can move around very easily, it is always changing for the better...