text Virginia Mammoli
Vivian Saskia Wittmer and her custom-made shoes
Our interview with the master shoemaker
How did you develop a passion for shoes?
It’s a passion I’ve had since I was a child. Whenever I came to Italy on holiday with my family, I couldn’t keep my eyes off the men’s shoes in the shop windows. I was, in particular, intrigued by the colors, because in North European countries men mostly wear black shoes.
What brought you from Germany to Florence?
I learned the craft from the best shoemaker in Germany. After three years of training, I still wanted to learn more and I decided to come to Florence, to Stefano Bemer’s workshop. I was his first assistant and I remember the beautiful atmosphere of creativity.
What made you fall in love with this city?
I fell in love with Florence’s colors, workshops, beautiful architecture and art which ooze from every corner. In addition, of course, of the good food, the sun…
What kind of models do you make?
I do not make standard models. I discuss every single detail with the customer, not only in terms of comfort, but also of design, colors and materials, in order to make classic shoes that last a lifetime, but which reflect his style and needs. Shoes designed for people who appreciate the manual work required to make them.
What are your favorite places in the city?
One of my favorite things is walking downtown as the sun rises, admiring the Duomo or the Ponte Vecchio while the city is still sleeping. There are two places very special for me: the Bardini Garden and the Brancacci Chapel.
And if Florence were a pair of shoes, what model would it be?
A pair of brown-red (similar to the Duomo’s dome) loafers, with light-colored stitching on the upper.
