From Wharton to Nordstrom: The Zena Ziora Story

Chiso Osuji’s journey proves that true luxury is built on persistence, faith, and impeccable design; with shoes that blend heart, craftsmanship, and timeless style.

In an industry often driven by fleeting trends, Zena Ziora stands apart as a luxury footwear brand grounded in heritage, heart, and timeless craftsmanship. Founded by Chiso Osuji, a Wharton MBA who dared to step into fashion during a global pandemic, the label draws its soul from her Nigerian roots, her faith, and the extraordinary women in her family whose elegance and resilience continue to inspire each design.

In this feature with Blanck, we explore with Osuji, the core essence of Zena Ziora and how every pair tells a story; from her grandmothers’ polished sophistication to her mother’s playful, modern edge; all brought to life by centuries-old Italian artisanship and anchored by the now-signature Maiorca pearls. What began as a leap of faith during a global pandemic has grown into a brand debuting at Nordstrom, carrying with it not just shoes, but stories, legacy, and the quiet confidence of women who stand tall in every room they enter. Zena Ziora is more than a brand; it’s a celebration of legacy, purpose, and the quiet power of shoes that are made to be worn, cherished, and remembered.

Your debut collection pays homage to the women in your life. If those women were to wear their namesake shoes today, where would they go and how would they style them?

What I love most about my signature collection is its versatility. These shoes truly work for every occasion, from the office to a night out, to a gala, even your wedding day.

The Dame, named after my Grandma Rose, reflects her elegance and strength. She was the quintessential lady who lunched, and she would have styled them with one of her signature skirt suits and a chic Royal Ascot–style hat.

Lady Antoinette is named after both my Grandma Grace and my mom. Grandma Grace adored colour theory and a monochromatic palette, so she’d pair hers with a fitted blouse and an A-line midi skirt in complementary shades. My mom, on the other hand, is the queen of a funky jean, so she’d style her pair with bold denim and a crisp white linen shirt.

Finally, Philippa is named after my great-aunt, Grandma Grace’s sister. She loved nothing more than a stunning shoe, so she would have worn her mules with a flowing dress cut just right to show them off. Together, they represent the spirit of Zena Ziora: timeless, versatile, and always personal.

 The Nordstrom journey has been one of persistence, patience, and prayer. It meant years of refining the collection, building genuine relationships, and refusing to compromise on what I want Zena Ziora to stand for.

The Maiorca pearls have become Zena Ziora’s quiet signature. What’s the most unexpected reaction you’ve had from someone seeing them in person for the first time?

People are always intrigued that the pearls are not just decorative, but also functional. They often describe them as “Jewelry for the feet,” which I love. The most surprising reaction is always the disbelief at how strong they are; when people realize the pearls actually hold the foot in place, their eyes widen in amazement.

It took me two and a half years of prototyping, strength testing, and redesigning to reach this level of perfection. So, those moments of wonder feel like a reward for the persistence and detail behind the design.

From Wharton MBA to working with a centuries-old Italian atelier; that’s quite a leap. What’s one behind-the-scenes moment that made you feel, “Yes, this is exactly where I’m meant to be”?

The process of designing my debut collection was that moment, over and over again. Seeing my sketches come to life in the hands of master artisans in Italy felt like magic; a confirmation that I was exactly where I was meant to be. Entrepreneurship comes with its challenges, but my passion for Zena Ziora always validates the journey. Every time someone compliments my designs, it fills me with inexplicable joy. Those words are more than encouragement; they’re fuel that keeps me moving forward.

The Zena Ziora woman is described as a tastemaker. Who is a tastemaker that inspires you right now, and what about her energy fits into the Zena Ziora world?

Melissa from Melissa’s Wardrobe (and Stormzy’s stylist) is absolutely the Zena Ziora woman. I’ve admired her for years. She’s unapologetically herself, with impeccable taste and the rare ability to set the pace in everything from fashion to beauty to lifestyle.

Her influence is powerful - think Kate Middleton effect, but with edge and modernity. She embodies the energy and spirit of Zena Ziora so naturally, I often imagine her in our shoes.

You built a luxury brand during a pandemic with no formal fashion background. When things got difficult, what personal mantra or memory kept you pushing forward?

For me, it’s the Nigerian phrase: “Do those who did it have two heads?” It reminds me that if someone else could achieve it, so can I. I was raised to believe that nothing is impossible with God at the centre of your life. I dedicated this journey to Him and prayed that my steps would be ordered. And I’ve been blessed with an incredibly supportive family who often believes in me even more than I believe in myself. Coupled with my passion for design and the purpose behind building this brand, I simply had no choice but to keep pushing forward.

 What I love most about my signature collection is its versatility. These shoes truly work for every occasion, from the office to a night out, to a gala, even your wedding day.

Congratulations on your Nordstrom debut. Tell us about the journey there and the key message you’d like people to take away from your brand.

Thank you so much! The Nordstrom journey has been one of persistence, patience, and prayer. It meant years of refining the collection, building genuine relationships, and refusing to compromise on what I want Zena Ziora to stand for. It would have been easier to chase trends or cut corners, but I chose patience over shortcuts.

This brand was born out of love for the women in my family, for their elegance, taste, and presence. That’s why every style is crafted by master artisans in Italy, with every detail carefully considered.

Ultimately, my hope is that Zena Ziora shoes become the pairs you reach for again and again; whether you’re in the boardroom, at dinner with friends, or celebrating life’s biggest moments. They’re designed to help you stand taller, smile wider, and to be loved for years to come.

At its core, Zena Ziora is more than footwear ; it’s a living tribute to family, heritage, and faith, elevated by timeless craftsmanship. From Wharton to Nordstrom, Chiso Osuji’s journey is proof that true luxury isn’t just about what you wear, but the stories, values, and persistence stitched into every step. With each pair, Zena Ziora invites women not only to stand taller, but to carry legacy, beauty, and confidence with them wherever they go.