18. TrooRa Magazine The Women’s Issue Spring ’23

“What makes Jillil’s designs unique is her excitement to try something different.”

name has been linked with the cute oversized bows on the shoes. In fact, her first shoe collection was adored by many celebrities, especially Rihanna, who chose to wear one of her designs in the “ Where Have You Been ” music video. Given Women’s History Month and the important conversations about equality, supporting brands and entrepreneurs who represent true values and beliefs is now more vital than ever. Despite the increased attention on Black-owned brands and designers, Jillil doesn’t put herself into a box. She declared that what matters the most to her is the passion and effort she puts into her business and the people who can relate to her endeavor.

The Black female shoe designer is known for her bold design aesthetic that is reflected in her brand. Although her style leans toward a more masculine and edgy look, her shoe designs stand out for their feminine and sexy touch. The Black-owned and Las Vegas-based brand first launched a collection of flat sandals. Taking inspiration from a belt she owned, Jillil’s first shoe design was a flat sandal with a huge buckle strap around the ankle. She then evolved the flat bow sandals into her signature design, the bow pumps. After her husband gave her a beautiful purse with a huge leather bow detail as a birthday gift, she created a pair of sandals with black leather bows around the ankles. Since then, her

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