I AM WOMAN: Strut Footwear Steps into a New Era with Expansion and Style

Strut Footwear has taken a bold step forward with a major expansion, and owner Shandi Schwartz couldn’t be more excited. Shandi shared the journey behind the store’s transformation, the importance of quality footwear, and how Strut continues to give back to the community.

In January, Strut Footwear temporarily closed its doors at Mission Park Mall to undergo an extensive renovation, taking over the space next door. The result? A bright, spacious, and refreshed store that feels like it has quadrupled in size. “It’s just beautiful,” said Shandi. “I’m so proud of it, and it feels great to come into work every day.” With more room to showcase products, Strut can now expand its selection beyond shoes to include handbags, jewelry, and apparel, offering customers an even more diverse shopping experience.

Strut Footwear has been a staple in Kelowna for eight years, but Shandi’s path to entrepreneurship wasn’t conventional. Originally a teacher and counselor, she took a leap in 2014 during the BC teacher strike and pursued her dream of opening a shoe store. “I’ve always loved shoes,” she shared. “I build my outfits around them.” Her goal was clear—to curate a collection of high-quality, unique shoes that weren’t easily found online or at other stores. From handcrafted European brands to stylish yet functional footwear, Strut has become known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Beyond selling shoes, Shandi is passionate about giving back to the community. Strut has raised nearly $40,000 for the Central Okanagan Bursary and Scholarship Society (COBSS) through its round-up initiative, helping local high school students afford post-secondary education. “Our customers have embraced it so much that some even tell us to round up before we ask,” she said proudly. This culture of generosity and community support is at the heart of Strut’s success.

Looking ahead to spring, Strut Footwear is bringing in fresh trends, including ballet flats, Mary Janes, and stylish loafers. Sneakers remain a must-have, with bold colours like red making a statement this season. Shandi also noted a return to vibrant hues, including fuchsia, orange, lime, and turquoise, alongside the timeless appeal of the classic white sneaker. “It’s so fun to see what’s old becoming new again,” she said.

As Strut embarks on this exciting new chapter, Shandi credits her mother as an early inspiration, instilling in her both a love for fashion and a deep sense of community. With a newly expanded space, a hand-picked selection of stylish footwear, and an unwavering commitment to giving back, Strut Footwear continues to stride ahead in both business and heart. If you haven’t visited the new store yet, now’s the perfect time to step in and find your perfect pair!