Farmerette & the Calzolaio: Handcrafted Italian Footwear in Canmore 

Danika Dugan began her journey back into shoe design 3 years ago.

Working with third generation Calzolaio (calzolaio = Italian shoemaker) Sergi Ciarpella, Danika is able to give her life to her sketching. With this, she creates a beautiful line of the finest leather boots, shoes, and bags.

Using only the best Italian aniline calfskin leathers and a translucent dye technique that keeps the leather soft and surprisingly light, the leather will patina on it's own with time.

Each piece is meticulously sewn together using the Strobel method where the upper of a shoe is stitched directly to a fabric insole, creating a "sock-like" unit. This insures flexibility and durability. Lined in aniline calfskin leather, each stitch is perfectly placed making boots and shoes that will last for generations.

Danika had previously studied fashion design in Vancouver in the the 90's. It wasn’t until she discovered Gordon 1956 Srl, an Italian family-owned footwear manufacturer to produce her designs, that she returned to the industry.

Knowing the hands that create was her number one priority. Ethically sustainable. Being able to work with the best in the world is a dream come true.

Raised on the Prairies, Danika also farms and has a herd of breeding cattle with her husband, Tom Warnyca, in Montmartre SK. They recently purchased a small boutique in Canmore, Alberta. Famerette and the Calzolaio curates Danika's designs and that of Gordon's 101 private collection.

Experience the beautiful craftsmanship in every stitch. Feel the leather and treat yourself to something beautiful.

Inspired by my Native Prairie. Designed in the Canadian Rockies. 100% Made in Italy