With Alterre, Shilpa Iyengar Created a Convertible Shoe That Changes With Your Outfit
Your first real the work was…
I did a few internships in college with start-up fashion designers (Fabiola Arias and Gerlan Jeans), but my first paid job was my own business.
What’s the decision you made that everyone told you not to… but are you glad you did it?
Outsource my accomplishment. There was concern about not controlling the quality of shipments, but it freed up so much time that I was able to grow my business exponentially. Plus, it allowed me to close the office, work remotely, and travel the world, which was a huge benefit.
What is the key financial advice that matters to you?
Invest everything you can while you’re young because it adds up. And don’t be afraid of market fluctuations; things come back if it’s a good investment. I’ve also applied this thinking to fluctuations in my business.
What is your most unpopular opinion about the workplace?
It’s probably not unpopular, but I think most meetings are just about team building, and the information exchange itself could have been done via email.
Best parenting advice you would give to a new mom as a parent?
Relax. Most people grow out of childhood eating, going to the bathroom, and speaking without assistance. Most babies will be fine, so you don’t need to stress over small things and don’t let people force you to do anything. Prioritize your happiness when you can: a happy mom is a good mom.
What is your favorite work outfit?
A superb combination. It’s so comfortable and only a little annoying to use the bathroom.
What is the last great book you read?
The bandit queens by Parini Shroff. It is a black comedy about an Indian woman from a village who is excluded since everyone thinks she murdered her abusive husband. But little by little, the other women in the village ask her to help them get rid of their husbands, and she must accept to maintain her harsh reputation. There’s female empowerment, thrills, a bit of romance, intrigue and justice is served!
The biggest madness since the creation of your company?
Joining the Norwood Club, a private club for NYC creatives that we joined to network. I made some really good friends there and it really made my time in New York special. (RIP, though, because they closed during the pandemic.) My most recent splurge ended up hiring a model for my latest photoshoot. I had been modeling my feet for 10 years; after having a baby, I couldn’t bring myself to do both directing and modeling. It was definitely worth it.
What was the last thing you bought that you were excited about?
A wine cellar! So excited to have some nice chilled wine.
What is the thing you are considering buying?
A pasta machine. Can you tell I’m a 35 year old mom?
Explain the moment you realized, “Okay, I might actually be on to something here…”
That moment came when we walked into Macy’s. It was validation I didn’t know I needed, but the aura of success it brings is undeniable.
