Maki Sandals is created by wife and husband, Eren & Selim. A collection of effortlessly stylish handmade leather sandals that are minimalist in aesthetic, timeless, comfortable, colorful and above all, happy.
- Tell us briefly about the identity and philosophy of your brand? How is it inspired and influenced by the cornerstones of the store this summer, craft, culture & creativity?
The name ‘Maki’ comes from the endemic maquis vegetation found along the Mediterranean coast; short evergreen shrubs and trees that make the backdrop to every Mediterranean story. As a wife and husband duo, graphic designer and architect, we always had an attraction to the culture and lifestyle surrounding the maquis vegetation. While spending time in Bodrum, we came up with the idea to re-work the artisanal handmade sandals, particular to this geography. Maki Sandals was born from this desire to pay homage to the ease and casualness of the Mediterranean and its culture of ancient craftsmanship; while re-imagining it from a fresh design perspective.
2. How is it tied to travel?
We have always enjoyed the captivating overlap between the busy urban and relaxed
Mediterranean ways of living. As lovers of travel, we know the importance of comfort and versatility. We created Maki Sandals with the hope that it can take you from day to night and beachside to city – your perfect companion for traveling.
3. For what reasons do you travel?
We travel to learn, grow and gain new perspectives about life. It takes us out from our comfort zone and keeps us on our toes which we thoroughly enjoy!
4. What are some of your most unforgettable escapes that have shaped and inspired the identity of your brand?
We have traveled extensively between continents, from East to West. All our travels have always brought us new ideas and perspectives but especially our travels to the Mediterranean coast have taught us that common sense of culture goes beyond borders – that there is a collective sense of ease and comfort among a geography and not just one country.
5. Where do you search for inspiration?
Maki Sandals is inspired by the four elements of the Mediterranean: Sea, Maki, Sky and Sun. The natural backdrop to any Mediterranean coast.
6. What’s one piece from your own collection that you always bring on travels?
Our Moon Pastel sling back sandals are great for travel. The pastel tones bring color, yet they are muted enough that they go with almost anything. The sling back aspect also makes long walks by the coast or running errands equally easy.
7. What about a piece that’s perfect for a holiday on the Turkish riviera?
Straw bucket basket is a must bring. You need to find the perfect size – big enough to carry your necessities but not too big that it’s bulky to carry. They are great at the beach, on the boat and for carrying fresh fruits and veggies from the market.
8. What are some of your favorite escapes here at home, hidden gems in Turkey?
A boat trip along the Turkish riviera with friends is our absolute favorite! The natural habitat, untouched bays and quality time with good company is truly the best escape.
9. Share with us one of your favorite travel memories or anecdotes..
Our favorite travel memories are the ones that are unexpected and ones we learn from. In Cuba, we learned that at New Year’s they throw water out the windows. Walking through Havana during New Years we received a cold and wet surprise! In Japan, we experienced that the bow is the new ‘hello’ so we learned to use bowing as a gesture of gratitude wherever we went. And in Thailand, we learned to follow in the footsteps of the locals and skip the restaurants for the tastiest street food. We travel and learn!
10. Favorite travel film or book?
One of the classics, the movie “Around the World in 80 days” was a big eye opener as a kid. The thought of traveling the whole world in such a short time with different means of transportation – from hot air-balloon to train to sailboat was thrilling. We are yet to travel the world in 80 days but every year we try to add a few new places to our travel list!
11. Where are you dreaming of escaping to next?
As far as Mexico and Australia and as close as Italy.
12. What does traveling mean to you?
Food for our souls!
