From Venice to the world, Gondolina is redefining luxury through craftsmanship, purpose, and profitability.
In just two and a half years, Gondolina has risen from a small Venetian atelier to become Italy’s most profitable luxury footwear brand, drawing global attention with its unique blend of authenticity, purpose, and strategic independence.
Founded by Javier Fernández Aguilar and Agnese Cosulich, Gondolina is more than a footwear brand — it’s a cultural mission. With craftsmanship at its core and purpose at its heart, the company is now preparing for its next chapter: a global expansion launching in 2026, with flagship boutiques planned in Paris, New York, London, and Tokyo, alongside localized e-commerce platforms designed to bring Venetian elegance to a worldwide audience.
A New Standard in Italian Luxury
Handcrafted in Friuli and born in Venice, Gondolina has reimagined the traditional Friulana — the iconic Venetian slipper, through innovation, sustainability, and emotional design.
Each pair is made from 100% cotton velvet sourced from Lake Como, featuring the brand’s patented ergonomic sole that blends centuries-old artistry with modern comfort and design.
In an industry dominated by mass production and external funding, Gondolina stands as a symbol of independent, sustainable success.
The company has achieved over 1,100% annual growth and net profit margins exceeding 45%, confirming its position as Italy’s most profitable luxury footwear brand.
What began as a two-person venture has now grown into a team of 55 artisans and professionals, reflecting Gondolina’s commitment to human-centered, long-term growth.
Craftsmanship as Purpose
Recognized by the Camera di Commercio Italiana as the Official Ambassador of Friuliane Craftsmanship, Gondolina’s mission extends far beyond fashion.
It is dedicated to preserving Friulian artisanal identity and Venetian cultural heritage, not just as a brand story, but as a living responsibility.
“We see ourselves not just as shoemakers, but as custodians of a cultural heritage,”
says Agnese Cosulich, co-founder of Gondolina.
“Each pair of shoes carries the spirit of a tradition that deserves to endure.”
This deep-rooted commitment has earned Gondolina prestigious honors such as Best Luxury Footwear Brand 2025, Italian Excellence 2025, and inclusion in the Homo Faber Guide.
Its Venetian boutiques have become true destinations for collectors and international style leaders alike.
A Global Vision Rooted in Values
Though details of the upcoming expansion remain under wraps, industry insiders describe Gondolina’s 2026 strategy as a bold redefinition of global luxury — one that unites heritage and technology, emotion and performance.
“Luxury should evolve without losing its humanity,” Cosulich adds.
“This next step isn’t just about opening stores — it’s about changing how the world experiences Italian craftsmanship.”
Industry voices have even dubbed Javier Fernández Aguilar “the new Amancio Ortega of conscious entrepreneurship,” recognizing his ability to fuse efficiency, purpose, and profitability into a timeless business model.
“There are no shortcuts,” Javier notes.
“Only work, purpose, and faith that every step in the right direction — no matter how small — builds something enormous.”
With Venice as its heart and Friuli as its hands, Gondolina continues to prove that the future of luxury lies not in mass production but in meaning.
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