Taylor Swift, Naomi Watts, Gisele Bündchen and Jessica Alba share a style secret: Matt Bernson. The Tribeca-based shoe designer has been making waves in the fashion community for nearly a decade with his exclusive designs (only 100 per color). Now he has opened a boutique at 136 Main Street in Westport and brought his stylishly addictive shoes with him. We spoke with the designer about the new location and his hopes for the future.
What drew you to Westport?
My wife and I explored all the towns surrounding the NYC area and Westport fit our family on a personal level. I realized that it also made sense on a business level—the town matched what we had going in the Tribeca store. Westport and Tribeca seemed really similar style-wise; sophisticated but also casual, focused on quality and refinement.
What distinguishes your brand?
Our shoes are stylish and practical. They are made so that you can actually walk in them. You won’t find anything higher than a three-inch heel, because you do have to be able to get around. They are well-constructed, cool and minimalist, engineered for comfort. My wife and my mom are the testers, and they always tell me what they do or don’t like.
What are your hopes for the Westport store?
The Westport location is our only store outside of the city, so I’m hoping that people will learn about the brand. I want people to get the feeling that there’s a real person behind the store, not just a mega company.
Any plans to open more locations in the area?
Growth of the brand would be ideal but right now I want to continue getting to know the Westport community.
Spring Collection Athena Shoe in Rose Gold