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Shoe Designer Spotlight: Meet Marcy Cail

We chat with long-time Blowfish Malibu shoe designer, Marcy Cail, in an exclusive interview!

I think it’s fair to say that shoes can make or break an outfit. They are the ultimate accessory and sometimes they even steal the entire show. We all love our shoes, of course, but have you ever wondered whose artistic endeavor and design ended up on your feet? Well, today you get to meet one of them. Friends, we introduce you to Marcy Cail, a Blowfish Malibu shoe designer since 2013 and a shoe biz whiz for the past 13 years. She describes her specialty as, “boots with lots of hardware and bling, sandals with lots of hardware and bling, and sneakers with lots of hardware and bling.” Laughing, she adds, “I think there’s a theme here!”

Marcy, along with the talented Blowfish Malibu design team, travel all over the world to bring back inspirations of the newest original styles. Their creative process includes careful attention to the details that add quality, style, and an unexpected twist to final designs. We got to ask this veteran shoe designer about her inspirations, favorites, and what she really thinks about Blowfish Malibu Shoes.

marcy cail interview

How long have you been designing shoes?

I have been in the shoe business for 13 years. Initially, I worked in customer service and sales support. The design department intrigued me. I remember thinking, ‘I want to work there and design shoes!’ Later, one of the designers taught me to sketch shoes in exchange for lunch. He critiqued my sketches and taught me technical measurements and standards. Then one day, I sold everything I owned and moved to NY to work in fashion, designing shoes. I have been doing it ever since.

What is your favorite thing about designing shoes?

Shoes make a statement! You really can tell so much about a person by their shoes.

What inspires your shoe designs?

I think my greatest inspirations come to me in my dreams… and those ideas literally keep me up at night. During design season, I keep a notebook next to my bed for this reason.

What makes a good shoe? 

I would say a good shoe is one that is inspired by a challenge. A good example of this is the flat Balenciaga used in their S/S 2011 runway. This flat was designed because top model Gisele Bundchen refused to walk the catwalk wearing high heels. Thus, the Balenciaga Cut Out Creeper was designed. I love this shoe.

Where could we find you when you aren’t designing shoes?

Traveling, cooking dinner whilst dancing, running, yoga, gardening.

Where is your dream destination?

An African safari.

If you weren’t a shoe designer, what would you do?

Design jewelry. I love jewelry!

Do you have an all-time favorite Blowfish Malibu style?

The Duo because it is a great example of my obsession with details.

What sets Blowfish Malibu apart from other shoe brands?

There is a whole team of amazing people at Blowfish Malibu, working from all parts of the world (US, Europe, Asia). I would like to say Blowfish Malibu is special because of the amazing designs 😉 but that’s literally just the beginning. I think what really sets us apart is the passion that every “fish” contributes to making it happen. There is heart in the shoes. <3

How would you describe your own personal style?

I am drawn to anything that sparkles, like a moth to a flame.

If you were an animal, what would you be?

An owl. And not because I am wise, but because (like owls) I have a staring problem.

What are you currently listening to on repeat?

“Beatific” by Glass Candy. I wish they would release a new album already.

What advice would you give to someone who is trying to get into footwear design?

Seek mentors, ask questions, and make sure you are a part of a great team.

Thank you Marcy!  

Check out Marcy’s website and shop her designs at Blowfish Malibu here

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