So I’ve been wanting to interview for a few months now so thank you for giving me some of your time. So as Perths premier shoe lady, how did you get in to this?
”It's a very boring story - I joke I need to make up a better one. Back 12+ years ago a few friends had their fave Perth shoe shops shut down plus a couple were pole dancers (The Adult Shop had just stopped selling heels) and I made the comment - "I could do that!" Started off with a few pairs in my very small bedroom in my My Pleasant unit. Spread out into the 2 small spare bedrooms, then encroached out into the dining room and we moved and grew from there. We've moved twice plus renovated twice where we are now. It's been a fun ride.”
I know you cross multiple communities from kink, to drag, to crossdressers to just regular folk who like their shoes with a high shine. How do you manage to keep enough stock on hand to please your growing customers needs?
”Yes we do cater to a huge part of the community which does make it difficult to stock all styles & sizes and keep everyone happy. We have sizes ranging from Women's US 5 - 17 plus some men's styles Men's US 4 - 14. The Shoe Room has approx. 1000 pairs of shoes in various styles, colours, materials and sizes. The old saying "you can't keep everyone happy all the time" is certainly true but we try our best. If we don't have what you want in stock it does only usually take approx 1-1½ weeks to get customer orders in.”
What’s some of the key trends your are seeing people buying? Any stand out styles?
”This question is interesting - with such a broad reach across the community this one is almost impossible to answer. Right now the Demonia boots are the most popular for their versatility and ease of wear. They are being purchased by all ages for a huge variety of reasons - school balls, D&B events, raves, Drag, weddings, costume, Kink, Pole, Burlesque, everyday wear, bands, musicians, performers and much more (sorry if I've left anyone out - the list is huge!) The stand out style would have to be CAMEL! 5 inches with a big chunky heel.”
I know that you offer a private shopping experience which I think is amazing, what have you the idea for that?
”I've always tried to look after people who needed privacy, it was mainly cross dressers from many years ago. Sometimes I'm the only person in the world who knows they cross dress. This is both a privilege and heart breaking. More much needed private services were added when I had the lovely Rachael from @hausofheel working for/with me, she looked at who else needed to be looked after then set it up.”
Finally, and I don’t think I would get away with not asking but, how many pairs of shoes do you personally own and any favourites we should know about?
”Ha ha yes I think you need to ask that question. In my personal wardrobe it would be approx 15 - 20 pairs BUT The Shoe Room is my "shoe"robe too and if I like something I definitely make sure I order it in in my size so they're sitting on the shelves ready for me to grab if I feel the need.
Hmmm favourites...
In the Demonia range definitely the CAMEL 203 in black matte for a good look and comfort! For events my all time favourite is the ever versatile & gorgeous TEEZE-06 in black matte (black is my favourite colour in case you can't tell ).”
For more information and to view the range of footwear available: