“I’m 65 years old [the interview took place last year], head of the Vass Shoes Ltd., shoe maker at the master level, with 2 daughters, one of them, Eva, is the CEO of our company, and she now runs the business. When I was young, 14-18, I learned shoe making in school. I loved it, so I’ve decided to make it perfect, so at the age of 23 I decided to make it to the master level. Then, when it was possible, in 1978, I set up our company. [My hobbies now are] collecting contemporary art, paintings and sculptures.

Products from Pukimo Raivio

Kiton, grey sports jacket, size 50EU
Ralph Lauren, Black Label suit, size 52EU

There are four or five other good shoe makers on the [Hungarian] market. But everybody has his own brand and design. There are a few young people who are learning how to make shoe at the moment. They are still interested in the trade. The other shoe makers are a little bit different from us. The quality and the lasts are different. They are making different combinations, too. They are using their models, we ours. One of the most important details is the last, choosing the perfect cut, leather, and to this is added the classic designs and ABSOLUTELY perfect 100% hand made quality. [My favourite is the] Budapest model.

The Köneman Publishing company in Germany made it possible to make my book. They offered to me the chance to work together with Magda. It was good. I am working more today since we are so well known, but I am always staying on the ground with two feet. My advice: less is more. It is better to have two or three pairs of good handmade shoes instead of 10 less good, cheap, trendy shoes. The handmade shoe has always a story and we can repair it.”

http://vass-cipo.hu/Eng/