The vault: Samia Akram

The talented entrepreneur behind the hot-selling shoes at Soma International opens up her vault to us. Here she showcases some of the trendiest footwear along the way!

How and when did you get interested in footwear?

I have always had a love for shoes! The lack of availability of good quality shoes which are easy on the pocket, especially in Pakistan, motivated me to start working on this professionally.

What are your favourite shoes in your collection?

It’s tough to narrow it down because I love all my babies. But my newest obsession has to be a pair called ‘Firenze’. It is a black suede shoe with ankle straps and studs on the heels and straps — truly very chic and cool.



Share a story with us about how you designed one of your favourite shoes?

‘Firenze’ was developed while I was strolling on the streets of Italy. I got the urge and drive to make something that was just as classy as the country. A pair that would make one feel confident, comfortable, elegant and yet be simple. I wanted it to be something that would take you from morning to night. The final result is shoes that can be worn to work, lunch, dinner or even parties. It’s something versatile and has a great personality.

Is there any shoe you are emotionally attached to and why?

No, I’m not particularly emotionally attached to any of my creations. It’s needless to say I love them all.

Is there anything on your radar that you want to make in the future?

Yes, I have a lot of lovely luscious leather I look forward to using in my upcoming collections. I keep my options open and like to explore everything and anything. You’ll be seeing me making all sorts of things in the very near future.