After years of searching the back of shoe stores for anything above a size 10, Danielle King knew something had to change. As a 5’11” woman wearing a size 11.5, King often found it discouraging to shop for stylish, high-quality shoes. Now part of the Master of Business Creation (MBC) program at the University of Utah, King is the founder of Dani King, a brand designed to change that experience and celebrate women who don’t fit the mold.
“I’ve always struggled to find fashionable shoes in my size,” King said. “It became increasingly clear that women with larger feet were barely being considered.”
While studying at Brown University, King began exploring the idea of creating a footwear brand specifically designed for women with larger feet. Although she had a strong interest in fashion and entrepreneurship, the concept took shape in ways she hadn’t planned.
When renowned designer Stuart Weitzman visited her campus, King introduced herself and shared her idea. After learning there was a private dinner that evening, she decided to take a risk.
“I asked if I could go, and they said no,” she said. “So I just showed up anyway, pulled up a chair, and sat down.”
“He was incredibly generous with his time,” she said. “We talked for about 25 minutes, and he gave me his contact information.”
After struggling to find a high-quality manufacturer on her own, King later reconnected with Weitzman, who introduced her to his personal developer in Spain. That introduction led to the production of her shoes in Elda, Spain — the same region where some of the world’s most recognized luxury footwear is made.
Today, Dani King is a women’s footwear brand designed exclusively for sizes 9 through 14, with each pair expertly handcrafted. Dani King shoes are lovingly made by and for the women who wear them. Rather than simply extending sizing, the company designs shoes specifically for larger feet, ensuring both fit and aesthetic are considered from the start.
Dani King is built around a broader mission of confidence and self-expression.
Dani King footwear is handcrafted
“I want women to feel comfortable in their own skin,” King said. “I’m 5’11”, and I love wearing heels. A lot of taller women avoid them because they don’t want to stand out, but I want to push back against that. If you want to wear heels, wear the damn heels!”
After visiting the factories in Spain, King gained a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each product.
“I knew the shoes were handmade, but it’s completely different when you see them being made in person,” she said. “There are people cutting the leather, stitching, sanding, pressing — there are so many steps, and the attention to detail is astounding.”
As the company enters its early stages, Dani King is launching with a made-to-order model before expanding its online presence and moving into retail.
One of the company’s key milestones came during Brown University’s Venture Prize competition.
“It was terrifying,” King said. “But I just had to trust myself and go for it.”
She ultimately won first place, receiving $25,000 in funding that gave her the capital necessary to move the business forward.
“I wouldn’t be here without that,” she said.
Now part of the MBC program, King credits the experience with providing both community and momentum as she continues to grow the brand.
“We want women to own the space they take up,” she said. “I am so excited that business has launched, and I look forward to the future of Dani King.”
Learn more on the Dani King website at danikingshoes.com.
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- Dani King footwear is handcrafted
