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Created in memory of a mother from the old world...

ZitaMaria’s roots go back to a time when shoe making was a passion. They were raised in old shoe making towns in the Tuscany region of Italy. Shoemaking was in their blood and drew spirit from the artisans and craftsmen they employed.

Brought to America by a son determined to preserve a family tradition...

Donald Elefante, son of ZitaMaria and president of D.R.E. Imports, Inc. knew that the time was right to bring the work of his family to America. “Americans are looking for high quality footwear after decades of less well made imports”. Donald’s family roots in Italy have been involved with either leather tanneries or shoe making factories for over 40 years. “We hand pick the best leathers, help design the silhouettes, and keep the business small enough to oversee all operations on a personal level”. Beginning with their first delivery to the U.S. in the fall of 1997 ZitaMaria has developed a loyal customer base and continues to serve their customers with great service. The ZitaMaria work ethic has never changed: hard work, high style and quality.

Crafted by an extended family of relatives and long time Italian employees who are proud of what they do...

The art of making shoes in the Italian tradition is almost as old as Italy itself: designing silhouettes, creating the lasts, hand selecting the leathers and actually hand stitching certain parts of the shoe; these skills are still preserved at ZitaMaria. Members of our work team have been with our family business for generations. We work together with an emotional commitment to make good shoes that last .

ZitaMaria is available in upscale stores and independent retailers nationwide.