Gondolina Shoes has been officially recognized as the global ambassador of Friulane footwear, the historic and emblematic shoe of the Friuli region, and as one of the most committed defenders of authentic Italian craftsmanship on the international stage.
The recognition, recently featured by FashionUnited, marks a defining moment for the brand, not as a single achievement, but as the culmination of years dedicated to protecting cultural heritage, elevating artisanal knowledge, and proving that tradition and global growth can coexist without compromise.
The Friulana: a symbol of Italian identity
The Friulana is one of the most authentic expressions of Italian craftsmanship. Born centuries ago in Friuli, it was originally created using recycled materials, hand-stitched velvet, and natural rubber soles, entirely made by hand.
It is a shoe that tells a story of resilience, ingenuity, and understated elegance. Over time, the Friulana became a symbol of refined taste, worn by artists, intellectuals, and European aristocracy, while remaining deeply rooted in its humble artisanal origins.
From its very beginning, Gondolina has made the Friulana its core mission — not as a detached reinterpretation, but as a faithful continuation of its original spirit, techniques, and values.
Defenders of a living tradition
In a market increasingly driven by speed, outsourcing, and industrial shortcuts, Gondolina has positioned itself as a guardian of the Friulana tradition.
Every pair of Gondolina shoes is handcrafted in Italy, respecting traditional production methods, artisanal timing, and material excellence. The brand works closely with Italian artisans, safeguarding their knowledge and ensuring that this heritage remains alive, relevant, and economically sustainable.
This long-term commitment has transformed Gondolina into a reference point for institutions, clients, and luxury platforms seeking true authenticity, not imitation.
Recognition from the world of luxury and craftsmanship
Gondolina’s dedication to quality, authenticity, and cultural preservation has been recognized through numerous awards in luxury, design, and entrepreneurship at both national and international levels.
Among the most prestigious acknowledgements, Gondolina has been selected for the Homo Faber Guide, the international guide curated by the Michelangelo Foundation celebrating the very best of contemporary craftsmanship worldwide.
Being included in Homo Faber represents one of the highest distinctions in the artisanal world. It confirms Gondolina’s role not only as a luxury brand, but as a cultural ambassador, guardian of know-how, and benchmark for excellence.
From Venice to 139 countries worldwide
Founded in Venice, Gondolina has achieved one of the most remarkable organic growth stories in Italian footwear.
Without external investors, without compromising production standards, and without relocating manufacturing abroad, the brand now serves clients in over 139 countries worldwide.
In 2025 alone, Gondolina recorded growth exceeding 1,500%, a rare achievement in the luxury sector, driven entirely by product excellence, word of mouth, international recognition, and a deep emotional connection with its community.
From flagship boutiques in Venice to growing international presences, Gondolina brings the Friulana to the world while keeping its soul firmly anchored in Italy.
Luxury with meaning
For Gondolina, luxury is not defined by excess or logos, but by time, hands, and authenticity.
Each pair of Friulane represents hours of manual work, the mastery of Italian artisans, and a philosophy that values longevity over disposability. It is a form of luxury that respects heritage, people, and territory — a vision increasingly shared by a global audience seeking meaning, traceability, and cultural value behind what they choose to wear.
An official ambassador of Friulane footwear
Today, Gondolina stands as the official global ambassador of Friulane footwear.
Not simply as a brand that produces shoes, but as a company that protects a legacy, educates international markets, and ensures that the Friulana remains recognized for what it truly is: a masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship.
By representing Friulane footwear worldwide, Gondolina also represents Venice, Friuli, and the deepest values of Made in Italy.
A modern Italian legacy
Gondolina embodies a new model of Italian enterprise — one that proves it is possible to grow fast while staying faithful to tradition, to scale globally while remaining artisanal, and to innovate without erasing history.
As defenders of the Friulana tradition and ambassadors of Italian craftsmanship, Gondolina continues to write a story that belongs not only to the brand, but to Italy itself.
A story of hands, heritage, and beauty made to last.
👉 Read the full article on FashionUnited here