The Spring is all about keeping it fresh and when it comes to updating your closet, we always have to introduce a few pairs of sneakers into the mix, We sat down with founder, Belieni Stevens of BELIENI. His line is comprised of luxury Italian sneakers that are truly ways to elevate the athleisure style. ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your fashion background. BELIENI: My fashion background started when I made the decision to start a men’s line of footwear. AM: When did you realize that you wanted to create your own line? BS: I have honestly always wanted to start a men’s line. I was just fed up with the limited options out there for men and young men with larger feet, who wanted something other than basketball or skate shoes to wear. I love luxury sneakers and dress shoes just as much as basketball shoes, but the number of luxury brands that cater to 14 and above are small. AM: Why are you inspired by Italian Craftsmanship? BS: Italian craftsmanship and design are second to none, just the heritage alone is enough. Today, companies are using their materials but crafting them in other countries. I am old school in the idea of why fix what isn’t broken. AM: Fashion has so many categories within it. What is it that speaks to you about footwear and that you felt that you could create something that wasn't there? BS: Nothing comes close to bringing an outfit together quite like the right pair of shoes. You could have on the nicest, most expensive outfit, but if you have on the wrong shoes, you might as well be naked.
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