WORDS BY REBECCA RHYS-EVANS
It may surprise you to know that footwear designer Aminah Abdul Jillil actually began her career as a ballet dancer. Moving from her hometown Anchorage, Alaska to Los Angeles, she twirled, plié’d and pirouetted for the likes of Janet Jackson and Britney Spears before foraying into fashion design. Since launching her luxury label in 2021, Abdul Jillil has made a name for herself thanks to her penchant for shoes with crystal, gold chain hardware, PVC, satin and suede. Her pumps are a signature (and a favourite here at KOIBIRD), with pointed-toes and ankle straps, other key styles include Abdul Jillil’s pink satin sandals and rubberised rhinestone flip flops. As any dancer (and modern urbanite) will tell you, comfortable footwear is essential, whether you’re rushing between business appointments, enjoying a sunday stroll with your favourite matcha latte or dancing until the early hours (Abdul Jillil will argue window sills are best). So, for those that can’t handle towering stilettos and wish to save their feet - and look chic whilst doing so - here’s your answer.