Dolce Vita started in 2001 on New York's Lower East Side, the brainchild of shoemakers Nick Lucio and Van Lamprou. They named it after their favorite bar from their student days in Italy, and the New York label is still headquartered in the city. The design philosophy is playful but polished, with trend-driven boots, strappy sandals, chunky loafers and sneakers that look far more expensive than they are. Honestly, it's one of my personal favorites.

Dolce Vita
The sweet life, New York style

The Heels
Dolce Vita heels are made for actually wearing, not just for the photo. The slingbacks, from the Gessia to the Yela and the Anabel peep toe, are my go-to for dressing up a simple outfit. The Kylo and Karsin pumps are the clean, classic ones, and the Kamra adds just enough embellishment for a night out. For something with a little more edge, the Kylo ankle strap pump is the one I'd reach for first.
The Boots
Boots are where Dolce Vita really shines for me. The Barbi pairs a plush knit cuff with leather for easy cold-weather comfort, while the Klyde comes both as a sleek bootie and a western boot. The Ledy and Tarine booties are the everyday pair I'd wear on repeat, the Rolan brings the moto edge, and the Brion and Cruz are the polished ones. All of them go with jeans and dresses alike.
The Flats
When I want to be comfortable without looking like I tried less, I reach for Dolce Vita flats. The Reyes Mary Jane is the feminine one, the Caret and Mikel ballet flats are easy with everything, and the Baxen and Tiggy loafers add a little polish. The woven Baylee, the Relan mesh and the Obella are the lighter, warm-weather picks. Each one is flat, but none of them are boring.
The Sandals
Summer is when Dolce Vita sandals come out in full force. The Fatima platform and the Akera wedge espadrille give you height without the pain, the Amary stud and Riki metallic are the dressier options, and the Isebel and Doreen are my easy strappy picks. The Dom and Nolah are the ones I'd pack for vacation, since they work with just about anything.
Why I Keep Coming Back
What I love most about Dolce Vita is that it never feels like it's trying too hard. The shoes are trendy enough to feel current, but wearable enough that I actually reach for them again and again, and the price keeps them easy to add to the rotation. A great pair of shoes can change an entire outfit, and Dolce Vita has made that feel effortless, which is what the sweet life is all about.






































