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Fashion

Queen of Bows

Written by: Stella Polyzoidou

Aminah Abdul-Jillil—world-class dancer to world-class shoe designer—A career transition not made for walking.

Born in Anchorage, Alaska, the now famous shoe designer started as a ballet dancer at a young age. After graduating from college, she wanted to pursue a career in commercial dance; thus, she moved to Los Angeles and began working as a professional dancer. Her talent led her to perform next to prominent names and big pop stars Britney Spears and Janet Jackson while also becoming a Cirque du Soleil team member. 

Her dancing past was the starting point when she was first exposed to the creative world of costumes, makeup, and fashion. Throughout the years, Jillil traveled worldwide and cultivated an eye for art, design, and fashion. While still performing and working as a dancer, she enrolled in a fashion course at the local college that included illustration, sewing, and color analysis. After accompanying Britney Spears on her world tours, Jillil pivoted to shoe designing and launched her first collection in August 2012. 

Aminah Abdul Jillil

Designing shoes with intricate shapes and distinctive details has always been her second biggest passion. Her shoes stand out with bold accents — oversized bows, chain detailing, and bejeweled ankle straps. What makes Jillil’s designs unique is her excitement to “try something different.” Like every young entrepreneur, she struggled to establish her business but never quit. She is a gleaming example of people starting with small savings and turning them into profitable businesses, confirmed by the brand’s worldwide reputation and global distribution in over 50 countries, including partnerships with premier luxury retailers Harvey Nichols and Level Shoes.

Jillil found it more efficient for her business to give her designs to a very talented shoemaker she discovered; that was the beginning of her brand’s journey. After experimenting, she found her characteristic style: the over-the-top statement bows that you will see on her shoe. Her shoes are a perfect combination of sexiness, class, and comfort! While comfort is not how she defines her collection, she says she’s very picky about the fit of the shoes. One of the reasons her brand is gaining popularity is the fact that Jillil doesn’t compromise quality. The Black female shoe designer is known for her bold design aesthetic that is reflected in her brand. Although her style leans toward a more masculine and edgy look, her shoe designs stand out for their feminine and sexy touch.

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