The Designer:
Founded in 2007, Gydja Collection is an Icelandic based shoe and accessories line created by designer Lilja Gudjons. Lilja has been fascinated with fashion and business from a very young age. She has a keen sense for business thanks to being surrounded by industry leading business entrepreneurs throughout her life. Her family ran a very successful promotions and marketing company, to which Lilja credits to her business acumen through first hand operations and marketing experience. Lilja's unique eye for style and flair are apparent throughout her collection. She is committed to making women feel glamorous and powerful while remaining classic and timeless.
The Collection:
Gydja (pronounced: "give-e-ya") Collection, meaning Goddess in Icelandic, combines unexpected textures with a bold color palette to create wearable pieces for women that aren't afraid to stand out and express their strength and individuality. Ranging from sophisticated pumps to peep toe heels, from thigh-high stiletto boots to *y sandals. The Gydja Shoe Collection has a style to suit any bold personality. Gydja's collection of belts fuses modern sophistication with classic style to create just the right amount of pop to an ensemble. Made from the finest materials including from abundant and eco-friendly use Icelandic salmon skin. The original Gydja handbags are ideal for multiple occasions. Larger day bags to keep your life organized and opulent clutches to put the spotlight on your night life!
The Origin:
Iceland is a European island located in the North Atlantic Ocean. The capital is Reykjavik, whose surrounding area is home to some two-thirds of the national population. Iceland is volcanically and geologically active on a large scale and is characterised by black sand, mountains, lava and glaciers. The people of Iceland harness their energy from the geothermal pool of warm water that lays under the surface. The Gydja Collection is born from this energy, which is apparent in its original design and style. The Trade Council of Iceland strongly supports the business of Gydja to which the Gydja Collection is one of only eight companies to be selected in project called Export and Economic Growth 2008-2009. Now the company is in a continuance projects from the Icelandic Trade Council called Utstim.
The Team:
Behind the designer and creator Lilja Gudjons is her talented and diverse team. Valeryana Joaquim is based in Paris, France and works for Gydja in sales, marketing and profile building. Valeryana graduated in fashion and with courses at Marangoni Institute in Paris and Milan. She worked in the creation department for major brands like Chanel and Zara. Michelle Vink and VinkMedia handles public relations, brand branding, profile building and marketing. VinkMedia is a virtual publicity and branding agency based in Los Angeles serving luxury lifestyle brands.
The Buzz:
The Gydja Collection has been receiving acclaim from celebrities and press alike. Tastemakers and trendsetters have already been requesting pieces from the Collection. Some of these celebrities include Beyonce, Mariah Carey, Anne Hathaway, Kylie Minogue, Megan Fox, Paris Hilton and Lauren Conrad. Press in Iceland and Europe clamor for Gydja and Lilja hope. The opportunity in 2010 is to grow the U.S market for the brand based on the international appeal and success
