Ulla Johnson, the renowned New York-based womenswear brand, is poised to make a significant leap in the footwear industry after securing a global license agreement with HIM Co SpA, a leading manufacturer and distributor of premium fashion and leather goods.
Ulla Johnson first ventured into the footwear market in 2013, and the new agreement with HIM Co will cover production and distribution for an initial term of three years, starting with the pre-spring 2024 collection. The partnership brings together Ulla Johnson’s dedication to creating future heirlooms and the unmatched expertise of HIM Co, whose manufacturing facilities are based in Riviera del Brenta, Venice.
“My brand is not just about the clothes themselves but about the story, the process, the travel, the lifestyle, the emotional weight of objects crafted by hand and with love“, said Ulla Johnson, founder and chief creative officer. Johnson’s affinity for HIM Co’s commitment to design, craft, and innovation has led her to believe that the partnership will help create pieces “whose beauty and meaning transcends time and place“.
Donata Minelli Yirmiyahu, CEO of Ulla Johnson, shared her excitement for the collaboration, emphasizing the synergy between the two companies. “Their incredibly rich history within the luxury footwear space and their appreciation and respect for a brand’s DNA when developing a collection makes them a perfect partner“, she said. Yirmiyahu also highlighted the strength of HIM Co’s global distribution network, which complements Ulla Johnson’s ready-to-wear business.
HIM Co owners, Fabio Ducci and Antonello Orunesu, expressed their commitment to ensuring the success of Ulla Johnson’s footwear collection in a statement: “We will put at her disposal our best expertise and know-how – both in the manufacturing and in the distribution“.
Although details of the upcoming footwear line and prices have not been disclosed, the collaboration is expected to contribute significantly to Ulla Johnson’s growing portfolio, which includes Made in Italy handbags, small leather goods, premium denim handcrafted in Los Angeles, swim, and jewelry. Founded in 1999, Ulla Johnson boasts more than 500 points of distribution worldwide, with products available through retailers such as Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Saks, Net-a-porter, Matchesfashion, Le Bon Marché, Mytheresa, Boon the Shop and Browns Fashion.
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