An Ode to Italian Craftsmanship

As a new year begins, many of us have started to think about our resolutions. One that feels more important with every passing year is prioritizing quality over quantity, not only in how we dress, but across every aspect of life.

At Viani, we like to do our part when it comes to the fashion side. That’s why we believe in investing in timeless pieces crafted to last, rather than chasing every passing trend. Shoes made with care, intention, and the kind of quality that earns heirloom status over time.

Each pair of Vianis takes over three hours to make and passes through the hands of up to fifteen artisans before it is complete. Just the hand-stitching of the sole to the upper part takes forty-five minutes, a process that speaks to the patience and precision behind every pair.

Today, there are only three remaining workshops in the world where original Friulane are still produced, and we work closely with one of them. Alongside forty skilled artisans, we preserve authentic techniques and details, from hand stitching to soles made from upcycled tires. This traditional detail gives every shoe its own distinctive sole—almost like a unique “fingerprint,” or even a personal “footstep,” if we may say.

Among these artisans, each carries their own unique story, one that becomes imprinted in every pair they touch. For example, Lia—an incredible artisan who learned the craft of Friulane at just 13 years old and, now 78, continues to preserve and pass on a tradition carried through four generations in her family.

In a world driven by speed and trends, choosing craftsmanship is a conscious decision. It’s about slowing down, appreciating the process, and investing in pieces that tell a story. At Viani, every pair carries that story with it—one of heritage, intention, and the hands that brought it to life.