Louise Anselmi discovered her passion for working in the fashion industry later in life. The director and buyer for Overland Footwear found her way into the industry after having three children and sending them off to school. Since then, Anselmi’s impact on Overland Footwear has been tremendous, helping expand the business and staying ahead of trends.
While predominantly most of Anselmi’s background is in English Literature and PR, she had a love for shoes and fashion, which helped push her towards her career in footwear. Her husband, Shane Anselmi, founder of Overland Footwear, supported her decision to join the family business, where she flourished in being a part of making the decisions.
Anselmi credits the ever-changing industry as one of her primary motivators.
“I think being in an industry like retail, learning and being open to what’s happening and changing is imperative,” voiced Anselmi. “Fashion is exciting and ever-evolving, so if you want a career where no two days are the same, fashion is for you.”
Despite being involved in Overland Footwear for 25 years, Anselmi still expressed the thrill she gets when she sees customers on the street wearing their designs or carrying Merchant or Mi Piaci bags. She also highlighted how often the top-selling styles have been the unexpected ones, highlighting the unpredictability of the fashion industry at times.
The most extensive advice Anselmi gives aspiring or current business owners is that feedback is essential.
“Feedback from our teams, our customers and our colleagues allows us to follow ‘the truth’,” stated Anselmi.
“Being open to feedback also inspires growth in our personal lives and grows resilience.”
Overland Footwear and its labels have continued to dominate the New Zealand shoe industry, providing customers with quality footwear.
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