July 11, 2018

Up next in our Interview Series is Rebels Footwear, a modern footwear brand known for their token casual California style. Featuring boho-luxe casual shoes, boots and sandals, each and every pair is guaranteed to spark confidence, attitude and - you guessed it - a little bit of rebellious spirit.

We sat down with Kelleen, the owner and founder of Rebels Footwear, to chat about her inspiration for starting the company, what they're up to next and the trends we can expect to see in footwear in upcoming seasons. Read on for her predictions! We love pairing our Rebels with Criscara foot jewels - anklets, toe rings and foot chains - for a match made in heaven!

I hope you enjoy learning more about their brand and their story. XO, Crista

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An Interview with Kelleen Balle, Founder of Rebels Footwear.

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

Tell us about the Rebels Footwear brand and the meaning behind the name.

My husband and I started Rebels as a boyfriend/girlfriend duo in 1993 with the concept for a rubber capped toe shoe we didn’t see anywhere. We’ve since mushroomed into our line of boots, sandals, flats and heels but we started as two Rebels with a shoe we wanted to bring to life. Some of us can relate more or less than others but really, isn’t there a rebel in all of us?

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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What is the inspiration for your designs?

It really is a collaboration here at Rebels. But from my point of view, I watch as many designer runway shows online as possible. I love seeing all the wacky outfits the girls are wearing during festival season and I’m always getting inspired by what people are wearing.

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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Tell us about the person who loves Rebels Footwear. What are a few words that describe their style and vibe?

Our Rebels girl is young, hip and adventurous and she has a lot of what I call “Casual California Style”. She likes to dress up and have fun but not take it too seriously. She’s a bohemian babe with renegade charm.

"She’s a bohemian babe with renegade charm"

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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Tell us about you. What was your inspiration to start Rebels Footwear?

I always have a hard time talking about myself. I started Rebels because I couldn’t find the shoes I wanted to wear, so I made them.

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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Do you have a favorite quote or mantra you live by?

I have two that I love - "Remember to delight yourself first, then others can be truly delighted" and "Better than most, not as good as some".

"Remember to delight yourself first, then others can be truly delighted"

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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What are some jewelry staples you can't live without?

Everyday I wear my diamond stud earrings, Cartier tank watch and Bulgari Parentesi cuff. I mix other jewelry around those pieces depending on my mood.

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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What are your 3 favorite pieces of Criscara Jewelry?

The Rebels girl would love the Gypsy Soul body chain, Shooting Star anklet and Night Sky shoulder duster earrings.

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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In your opinion, what are some footwear trends we can expect to see this summer & fall?

As far as details on shoes there will be big buckles, ruffles and gathering, micro studding, and woven leathers. Sneakers will continue to be a big trend along with strappy booties, slides and anything white.

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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So, what's coming up next for Rebels Footwear that you are most excited about?

We are pretty excited about the new sneaker line we are currently working on that’s going to take us back to our roots. I also think strappy booties are an item that the Rebels girl is definitely going to be excited to have in her closet.

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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Where can people find your products?

Criscara x Rebels Footwear Featured Interview

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Photo Credit: Rebels Footwear


 Criscara Featured Interviews - Bohemian Clothing, Jewelry, Swim and Home Goods Designers

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