Jorge Romero is carrying forward the rich legacy of Regina Romero, a historic footwear brand founded by his family. With a deep-rooted passion for craftsmanship and innovation, Jorge has chosen Arsutoria School to refine his skills and gain expertise in Italian shoemaking. In this interview, he shares insights into his family’s heritage, his experience at Arsutoria, and his vision for the future of Regina Romero.
Jorge Romero joined the course Shoe Pattern Making & Prototyping in Milan from 7 January to 17 April 2025.
Tell us about you, where you are from, the history of your uncle, Arsutoria School Alumno and when he was here.
My name is Jorge Romero, and I come from Mexico, where my family has been dedicated to the footwear industry for generations. Regina Romero was founded in 1984 by my grandparents, who had a deep passion for quality craftsmanship and elegant design. Their vision laid the foundation for what the brand represents today.
My uncle studied at Arsutoria School in the 1980s, and his time here played a crucial role in shaping our company’s design philosophy. The knowledge he gained in Italy influenced our approach to shoemaking, blending artisanal techniques with innovation—something we still uphold today.
What does it mean to work in the family business and what is your job there?
Being part of a family business like Regina Romero is both an honor and a challenge. It means preserving a legacy while also pushing the company forward with fresh ideas. My role involves overseeing product development, material selection, and innovation, ensuring that our designs stay relevant while maintaining the high quality that has defined us for years.
How is “Regina Romero” doing now? Can you give some data on 2024 growth?
This year has been one of growth and evolution for Regina Romero. We have consolidated our online sales, strengthening our digital presence and expanding our reach to a broader audience. Additionally, we have had the opportunity to open a new physical store, with a vision of launching around six more locations across Mexico this year. This expansion reflects our commitment to making our brand more accessible while maintaining the craftsmanship and exclusivity that define us.
What are the 3 reasons for which you decided to gain training at Arsutoria School
I chose Arsutoria School for three main reasons:
- Its reputation as a world leader in footwear design and craftsmanship.
- The opportunity to learn from experts in Italian shoemaking, a benchmark for quality and design.
- The hands-on experience and technical knowledge that I can directly apply to our business.
What aspect of your training here you find most attractive and/or relevant and how will you apply your new knowledge once back in the company
The most attractive aspect of my training has been the experience and expertise of the teachers. Their in-depth knowledge, particularly in pattern making, has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities in design. We have explored various constructions and styles, learning how to push the boundaries of creativity without limitations. I plan to apply this knowledge to develop collections that combine innovation with our brand’s timeless elegance.
Mexico and Made in Italy, what can we learn from each other?
Mexico and Italy share a strong heritage of craftsmanship and dedication to quality. Italy has mastered the art of combining tradition with contemporary design, while Mexico brings a rich cultural heritage and a growing, dynamic market. I believe that by learning from each other, we can continue to elevate the global footwear industry.Our Plans for the Future
What are your plans for the future
Our plan is to continue expanding within Mexico while also exploring international markets. We aim to introduce Regina Romero to new audiences by leveraging the skills and insights gained at Arsutoria. Our focus remains on delivering exceptional quality while embracing innovation and expanding our presence globally.
Jorge’s experience at Arsutoria School highlights the importance of continuous learning, even for those working within established brands. By combining Mexican tradition with Italian expertise, he is helping Regina Romero evolve while staying true to its roots. In bocca al lupo, Jorge!