Yvonne Liao, a former Singaporean teacher, has made a remarkable transition from the classroom to the catwalk, turning her passion for fashion into a successful shoe design business. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unexpected paths that can lead to entrepreneurship.
Liao's story began in 1990s Singapore, where she found herself yearning for more creative expression in her wardrobe. While the conservative setting limited her options for statement dressing, her love for shoes provided an outlet for her boldness. With a collection of footwear that would make any fashionista envious, her father even converted half the family storeroom into a shoe closet for her!
Despite her artistic inclinations, Liao followed the conventional route of attending the National University of Singapore's Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and becoming a teacher. However, the stifling nature of the civil service job soon became apparent, and she realized her true calling lay elsewhere.
In her late 20s, Liao made a bold decision to enroll in the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia, USA. This move, while daunting, allowed her to explore the fundamentals of the fashion industry and lay the groundwork for her future endeavors.
After graduating in 2012, Liao moved to New York City, where she worked in small apparel companies, honing her skills in marketing, sales, and production. It was during this time that her love for shoes resurfaced due to foot pain from running and a desire for more colorful and comfortable footwear.
In 2018, Liao took the leap into shoe-making, signing up for a class that sparked her creativity. She quickly progressed from a single class to private lessons, where she crafted her own sketches and developed a mini collection. Her determination and persistence paid off when she made her first sale at a Thanksgiving pop-up event in 2024.
Liao's success can be attributed to her unwavering New Yorker mentality, a mindset that emphasizes goal-setting and perseverance. She has invested US$10,000 in her brand and, despite not yet breaking even, her shoes are now stocked in three boutiques across the United States. Her online store, yvonneliaonyc.com, further showcases her designs to a global audience.
However, Liao's journey has not been without its challenges. The start-and-stop nature of her business and the fear of failure are constant companions. She acknowledges that fear is an inherent part of the entrepreneurial process, and it takes time and effort to overcome.
Liao's background in teaching has also played a significant role in her success. Her time as a teacher instilled in her a strong work ethic, meticulousness, and logistical management skills. These qualities have proven invaluable as she navigates the complexities of running her own business.
In conclusion, Yvonne Liao's story is a testament to the power of following one's passions and embracing unexpected paths. Her journey from the classroom to the catwalk demonstrates that with determination and a willingness to learn, anyone can turn their dreams into reality. As she continues to grow her shoe brand, Liao inspires others to take that leap of faith and pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations.
