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San Rafael comfort shoe brand Vionic has opened a pop-up in Westfield San Francisco Centre that will be open through April 2018.
If Oprah Winfrey were shopping at Westfield San Francisco Centre, the new Vionic store would most likely be her first stop: She just named the brand’s Mid Perf Slip-On Sneakers to her annual Oprah’s Favorite Things list. The San Rafael footwear company opened its first pop-up on Nov. 2 in the former BCBG space. “It’s really exciting to open in our own backyard,” says executive vice president of brand Lisa Bazinet. Customers will find the complete line of men’s and women’s styles, including sneakers, slippers, boots and heels ($39.95 to $149.95).
What sets this podiatrist-founded brand apart is its focus on both style and foot health — every pair of shoes has an innovative orthotic footbed made to hug feet and support arches for the most natural alignment (read: comfort). Those unfamiliar with the 10-year-old label will be immediately clued in with a glance at the tagline featured in the store window: “Style. It doesn’t have to hurt.”
Although still early days, Bazinet is happy with the foot traffic thus far: “We’ve seen a mix of people who know us — we are a top brand at QVC, Zappos and Dillard’s — and those who don’t but are drawn in by the styles. Once customers are fitted and feel the support, they get it. Our shoes are addictive,” says Bazinet. The store will be open through April 2018.
— Gail Goldberg
Shop Westfield San Francisco Centre, 865 Market St. (2nd floor), S.F. www.vionicshoes.com. A product designer and innovations experts will evaluate and fit customers 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 2. Gift with purchase (while supplies last).
