Nine-time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Carlos Santana is set to re-enter the shoe industry by relaunching his women’s fashion footwear label, Carlos by Carlos Santana.
He partners with original brand heads Gary Rich and Rick Gelber to form Jubilation LLC, which will manage the brand. Initially launched in 2001 in collaboration with Brown Shoe Co. (now Caleres), this label was successful in the U.S. and abroad but was discontinued in 2019 due to Caleres brand reshuffling.
Carlos Santana performs at the We Love NYC: The Homecoming Concert at the Great Lawn in Central Park on August 21, 2021, in New York City (Credit: Ron Adar / Shutterstock)
Santana’s relaunch aims to capture the brand’s past success and support the Milagro Foundation, a nonprofit he founded in 1998 to aid underprivileged children in arts, education, and health. Specifics regarding the brand’s support for the foundation haven’t been disclosed.
“It is an honor to partner with Gary and Rick to bring radiance, elegance and style back to the forefront of the brand, while at the same time making a difference in the lives of children through the Milagro Foundation,” Santana said in a statement.
“We know that these shoes will inspire and compliment the confidence and light within every woman wearing them.”
Carlos Santana expressed his excitement about the relaunch, highlighting the brand’s commitment to style, elegance, and positive social impact through the Milagro Foundation.
Carlos Santana, with his wife Cindy Blackman Santana, participate in the Philharmonic’s global edition of the orKIDStra music education program for a group of students at the Discovery Children’s Museum on October 29, 2019, in Las Vegas, Nevada (Credit: DJDM / WENN)
Rich and Gelber, formerly of Brown Shoe and Caleres, respectively, will spearhead the brand’s strategy and development. They emphasized their strong bond with Santana since their first meeting in 2000 and expressed enthusiasm for the relaunch.
“From our first meeting back in 2000, we connected with Carlos and created instant synergy and great energy. It’s fitting today that the three of us join forces again to form this partnership and relaunch the brand back into the marketplace,” Gary Rich said in a statement.
The new Carlos by Carlos Santana shoe collection will offer various women’s styles, with leather materials sourced from Brazil and Italy, and prices ranging between $100 to $250. Initially, the brand will adopt a direct-to-consumer model, selling exclusively on Carlosshoes.com, but retail partnerships might be explored in the future.
Carlos Santana’s Dazzling ‘Tandy’ T-Strap Sandals: A Must-Have for Summer
One of Carlos Santana’s most sought-after shoe styles, the ‘Tandy’ t-strap sandals dazzle with rhinestone leaf embellishments. Available in three stunning colors, these sandals will fetch you many compliments.
The Carlos by Carlos Santana ‘Tandy’ is designed as a thong-style sandal, complemented by gladiator heel sling straps with adjustable buckles and reliable rubber soles for a firm grip.
Which shade captivates you the most?
Carlos By Carlos Santana Women’s Tandy Sparkle Leaf Flat Thong Sandals, $25.99 – $65.00
Don’t you think this whimsical and feminine sandal is perfect for the warm season?