Inside SHEWAK: A Conversation with Founder Nish Shewak

From Dubai to the global runways, SHEWAK has quickly established itself as a brand that merges architectural design, comfort, and bold innovation. In our conversation with founder Nish Shewak, we delve into the story behind the label, the idea of the double heel, and how each pair is created — from the first sketch to the final product. We also discuss the brand’s debut at London Fashion Week and why philanthropy is now woven into its DNA.

How was the brand born?

SHEWAK was born from a desire to create something innovative, comfortable, and emotional — wearable art that carries the energy of balance, reflection, and individuality. I started the brand in 2020 more as a creative studio, experimenting with different projects, but footwear quickly became the core. Shoes offered me a sculptural medium to express architecture, chaos, and comfort all at once.

Sneakers were your starting point, but heels became your signature. What made you take that leap?

I’ve always loved sneakers — they were my entry point into footwear. But while studying in Florence and being immersing myself in Italian craftsmanship, I realised that heels were far more complex: more challenging, more constructive, more engineered. A heel offered me a vertical canvas, almost like a building. That was the turning point — the moment I understood I could approach a shoe not just as footwear, but as a piece of architecture.

The double heel has become your signature design element. What was the inspiration behind it?

The double heel was first introduced in my debut collection, Reflections. During my spiritual journey, I became fascinated by a simple yet profound truth: life itself is a mirror, constantly reflecting our inner world. Architecturally, I drew inspiration from Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, and the Ribbon Chapel in Japan — two structures holding one body. Translating that philosophy into footwear gave birth to the double heel, which has since become our defining design language.

Comfort seems as important to you as aesthetics. How do you merge the two?

To me, comfort is just as much a luxury as design itself. All SHEWAK shoes are crafted in Italy by artisans who truly understand the balance between construction and wearability. Every prototype is tested not only on mannequins but on real women in motion. We gather feedback, refine the angle, adjust the padding, and rework the heel and insole until the fit feels effortless and natural. My belief is simple: if a shoe doesn’t empower the person wearing it, the design is incomplete.

What does the creative journey of a shoe look like, from sketch to reality?

It often begins with a random idea connected to a story or mood board, which then evolves into sketches. Convincing my pattern makers and product development team can be a challenge — at first, they’re often left slightly confused — but once we align, I move into 3D modelling to test how structure and balance will actually work. The prototype phase in Italy is crucial: materials are tested, sustainability is taken into account, and comfort adjustments are made. Only when a piece feels truly innovative and moves like real footwear do I allow it to carry the brand’s name.

Among your collections, do you have a personal favorite?

The Hero She Sandal, with its four differently coloured heels, is definitely my favourite — it perfectly embodies the playful spirit of the label. I also love the Twin D’Orsay Pump, a design that is witty, bold, and unlike anything else — it was the first-ever asymmetrical shoe we created. And then there’s the double-heel necklace, which I wear almost every day — a small reminder of the brand’s DNA carried into an accessory.

When it comes to inspiration, where do you find it most?

A lot of my inspiration comes from within — from my own mind, which is full of unusual, sometimes bizarre ideas waiting to be executed both practically and functionally. My background also plays a big role: being of Indian origin, raised in Dubai, and later studying and working in Italy, I’ve had the privilege of being immersed in very different cultures and perspectives. And in fashion, if I had to name one ultimate icon of inspiration, it would be Martin Margiela.

London Fashion Week often signals a turning point for brands. How did it shape your journey?

London was where we first entered a truly global conversation. It marked our transition from a Dubai-born experiment to a brand capable of standing alongside international luxury houses. For us, it wasn’t about immediate sales — it was about being seen, creating dialogue, and proving to the world that Dubai can produce original, disruptive design.

If you had to capture SHEWAK in just three words, what would they be — and why?

Innovative. Timeless. Comfortable. 

I love creating something new — something that feels fresh yet enduring — and above all, something women can walk in for hours with ease and confidence.

Philanthropy plays an important role in the brand’s philosophy. Why was supporting an animal shelter so meaningful to you?

It was a very personal decision, as I have a dog myself. Animals may not have a voice in the world of luxury, but they embody something far greater — unconditional love and loyalty. Supporting shelters in the UAE became my way of grounding SHEWAK in something beyond fashion. For me, it’s a reminder that true luxury is compassion and the ability to give.

Do you envision SHEWAK evolving beyond footwear — perhaps into bags or other accessories?

I’m not sure about bags just yet, but we’ve already diversified into accessories like the signature double-heel necklace and bag charms. Still, innovative shoes — especially heels — will always remain our priority and core focus.

Looking ahead, what can we expect from SHEWAK?

Shhh… I don’t reveal too much about our future plans. But you can expect SHEWAK to continue expanding its language of innovative heels — always in a way that feels rare, collectible, and deeply personal.

Model: @ururabo_rwa_rudasumbwa

Photographer: @rolandhaddad_

Stylist: @Macky_K_Sasha

Web-Site: https://shewakofficial.com/

 By Catherine Mills