We recently connected with Vanessa Arroyo and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Vanessa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

My journey into fashion entrepreneurship began with a desire to address
the lack of representation I observed during my tenure in New York City.
As a footwear designer for a high-end label, I witnessed the disparities in
the industry. It was during my time in Mexico that I truly grasped the
traditional craftsmanship deeply ingrained in my culture. I was captivated
by the rich heritage of shoemaking, a skill passed down through
generations.
I founded SERES with a clear mission: to create dignified opportunities for
marginalized communities within the fashion and footwear industry.

Vanessa, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

SERES is a footwear company that bridges heritage with contemporary
fashion, offering stylish, comfortable, and sustainable footwear to
conscientious consumers. Our mission is to simplify sustainability,
making it accessible to customers who value ethical consumption without
compromising style. By choosing SERES, our customers can feel
empowered knowing that they are contributing to positive social impact
and environmental stewardship. We empower them to live more
abundantly by making conscious decisions and fostering connections
within a larger community. We want to continue to
develop new product and put our shoes on local store shelves.
At SERES, we see our connection with the community not just as a
responsibility but as an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in
the lives of people, helping them realize their capabilities and
encouraging them to envision brighter futures for themselves. Through
educational initiatives, we invest in the youth by hosting design
workshops and lessons tailored to students of all ages. We aim to foster a
sense of possibility and ambition in the next generation, showing them
that with dedication and support, they too can achieve their goals.

We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.

Yes, we manufacture our products in Mexico. With 15 years of experience in footwear, I’ve worked across the spectrum—from luxury to fast fashion. But I saw a gap in the industry: a niche that values both fashion and true sustainability. For me, creating Seres wasn’t just about launching a brand; it was about building a strong foundation to drive meaningful change.

Relationship building has been essential to making this happen. Meeting the right people at the right time, from local artisans to material suppliers, has shaped the brand and brought our values to life. Sustainability was always a priority, not just a buzzword. It’s about crafting thoughtfully rather than mindlessly adding to the industry’s excess. So, I began by sourcing materials locally, producing in small batches, and connecting with shoemakers who respected traditional techniques and valued quality. My background in shoe design, construction, pattern making, CAD, and more certainly helps. This experience has allowed me to create footwear with intention and precision. This blend of heritage and modern design is the foundation of Seres, built to stand apart in the industry.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Absolutely. One resource that’s significantly influenced my approach to management and entrepreneurship is The Business of Fashion podcast. It’s an inspiring resource for anyone in the fashion industry, providing invaluable insights and real stories from others who have walked similar paths. For anyone feeling isolated in their entrepreneurial journey, The Business of Fashion is a reminder that you’re not alone. Hearing from industry leaders and innovators has shaped my thinking and reaffirmed my commitment to a thoughtful approach to building Seres.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://seresfootwear.com
• Instagram: @seresfootwear
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seresfootwear/
• Other: https://linktr.ee/seresfootwear

Image Credits

Gonzalo Guzman (portrait) Ryan Bethel, Genevieve Pascolla