Meet Shilpa Iyengar | CEO & Co-Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shilpa Iyengar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shilpa, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
Shilpa Iyengar: I think “outsiders” think that fashion is a very glamorous career and that the majority of the time you get to design and go to fancy events. But it is like running any business; most of the time is spent figuring out production logistics, marketing effectively, and increasing sales. There is a lot of spreadsheet-ing I think people are unaware of! Harmony Pilobello: I think people outside of the industry often don’t understand how complex the production cycle is or how hard it is to build transparency in the supply chain. The industry is built to be opaque in a way that can glamorize fast fashion. For example, behind every $10 T-shirt is a garment worker making much less than you may imagine.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Alterre is a sustainable interchangeable footwear brand for ambitious women everywhere. Our modular shoes pack light for all of your adventures and milestones in life. We are also proud to be an AAPI women-owned business and give back 5% to Restore NYC, a non-profit providing long-term rehabilitation to survivors of sex-trafficking. While it hasn’t been the easiest to venture on our own, we’ve been fortunate to have each other as partners and our community to rely on. We’ve learned that kindness goes a long way, resilience is necessary, and patience is essential. We want the world to know that when you purchase from us, you’re supporting a network of women throughout the production process and that we are committed to growing sustainably.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are so many great places in Miami, it’s hard to choose! I’m in Coconut Grove so these are all more south Miami centric, but here are my top picks:

Places:
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: I love that it’s like visiting a little Italian villa without leaving town and a great place to experience the Gilded Age at its most decadent. They have farmers markets and vintage events. I even got married here!
Pinecrest Gardens: I used to go here as a kid when it was Parrot Jungle, and absolutely love the lush atmosphere. They have some great sculptures and art programs.
Day Pass at the Sagamore Hotel: What visit would be complete without a luxe beach day at a Miami Beach resort? I used to love going to the Delano and Shore Club, but since they’ve closed during the pandemic, this is a new spot I’ve been checking out.
Biscayne Bay National Park: During the Winter, it’s a great day trip from Miami to go paddleboarding and see a bunch of baby sharks! In the Summer you can snorkel and dive the reefs.
Wynwood Walls: If a friend hadn’t seen them yet, I would definitely take them here and around the galleries in Wynwood to check Miami’s burgeoning art scene.
Calle Ocho: It’s a bit touristy, but if a friend hadn’t been to Little Havana, it would be fun to take them for a little sugar cane juice and salsa dancing.

Food:
Byblos Miami – fabulous tasting menu
Peacock Garden Resto Bar + Grill – my favorite restaurant in Coconut Grove
Planta Queen Coconut Grove – great vegan and vibes
Lulu – for brunch
Mamey Miami – amazing Asian Caribbean fusion
Glass and Vine – I like to go when they have a live jazz band, since I love swing dancing

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are honestly so many people: our parents, our life partners, our consultants Helaine Suval and Laura Hall, and also all the amazing women along the way who have supported us with opportunities and resources.

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