My Story
Change is the only constant in life. That's basically become my mantra at this point—something I've repeated to myself through more than a few curveballs. So when change showed up again, I really shouldn't have been surprised. But I was.
Hi, I'm Jolene, the founder of Sole Design Studio. And yes, that's really me in the picture.
How It All Started
Retirement causes a person to ask all kinds of questions. Who am I? An artist, an activist, a detail-oriented professional, or just a young-at-heart, unique individual amazed at all the world has to offer?
After retiring, I found myself longing for a new purpose. That's when I discovered print-on-demand, and everything changed.
With my background in the arts and a flair for creativity, I dove into designing unique and personalized products using computer programs that gave me endless options. Then a magical thing happened—I opened my first Etsy shop, Tops and Toes.
I was instantly in love with it. Etsy offered me the perfect place to share my art and designs with the world. And print-on-demand was the perfect way to do it.
5 Years of Creating and Growing
I love animals (currently have three rescue cats) so I started putting cats on sneakers, boots, bags, socks, blankets, and more. I did the same thing for horses, dogs, and old hippie designs, as well as for teachers, firefighters, and nurses. Every time a new idea popped into my head, I kept expanding what I offered.
And I was rewarded with wonderful compliments from people all over the world. Now there just aren't enough hours in the day to list every idea floating around in my head—I love being retired!
From Etsy to Sole Design Studio
After five years of building Tops and Toes on Etsy and serving thousands of happy customers worldwide, I realized it was time to take the next step. My customers deserved more—a better shopping experience, easier navigation, and a place they could call their own.
That's how Sole Design Studio was born.
This website is the continuation of everything we built on Etsy—the same quality, the same care, the same passion—but with a better experience for you.
What Makes Us Different
Your footwear is an extension of your personality, so why settle for boring shoes that don't reflect who you truly are?
Every pair is created just for you. No mass production. No sitting in a warehouse. Just your unique style, made when you order it.
Who said luxury had to come with a hefty price tag? We offer premium footwear at prices that won't break the bank.
If your shoes don't fit, just contact us within 30 days of delivery and we'll send you a replacement pair at no additional cost. Order with confidence!
From Europe to Australia, from the USA to Asia—we ship everywhere. Because great style has no borders.
Our Promise
When you shop with Sole Design Studio, you're not just buying shoes. You're supporting a small business run by someone who genuinely cares about every single order.
I personally oversee the designs, I answer your questions, and I make sure every customer walks away happy. Because that's what this is all about—making you feel special, one step at a time.
So if you choose to become one of my customers, just know this: you're buying from someone who pours her heart into every design. And I have a feeling you're going to love these products as much as I do.
Welcome to the family.
✨
Jolene
Founder, Sole Design Studio