A born and raised Brooklynite, Daianara Grullon Amalfitano, Aldo Brand’s chief brand and product officer, found a love for early in life — even getting her start working at a footwear store as a young sales associate in the borough.
The decision to join the Aldo Brand team, where she makes an impact globally, after 22 years at Steve Madden Ltd., she said, was an opportunity to be part of the transformation of the Aldo Group, fueled by passion and innovation. Her vision and mission for her team is to continue to “deliver rich brand storytelling [to] effectively and creatively speak to Aldo’s customers.” Fashion, she said, is always in flux and her team is driven to stay on the pulse to bring the brand to life.
Daianara Grullon Amalfitano, Aldo Brand’s chief brand and product officer.
Here, Amalfitano gives WWD an inside look at her career, personal and professional accomplishments and where she finds inspiration.
WWD: What is the first thing you do in the morning?
Daianara Grullon Amalfitano: The first thing I do when I wake up is check our retail results and then scan social media before getting up and going — it’s a fun blend of business, news and inspiration.
WWD: What is a wellness routine must for you?
D.G.A.: I always prioritize fitness — it’s the best therapy for me. I love lifting weights and running. I also love the Peloton app — especially Jess Sims’ Saturday 60 Bootcamp. It’s brutal but I feel like a such a badass when I get it done.
WWD: Looking throughout your career, what is something that you are most proud of?
D.G.A.: I’m so lucky to work for a brand that’s constantly innovating and working on incredibly exciting projects. One of my favorites in recent history has to be the launch of our patented Pillow Walk technology that launched in 2022. Our team prioritized our customer’s feedback and worked tirelessly to inject nearly all of our men’s and women’s footwear styles with our dual-density foam so that our customers no longer had to sacrifice style for comfort.
WWD: What is your ideal shopping retail experience?
D.G.A.: As times have evolved, I think both online and traditional brick-and-mortar shopping have their place and purpose. I love to do a lot of researching and browsing online — plus you really can’t beat the convenience. There is something special though about an IRL, unplanned retail therapy session. Getting to try on, touch and feel the clothes you’re eyeing is something that’s very hard to replace fully — I don’t think I’ll ever give it up.
WWD: What inspires you?
D.G.A.: I’m constantly inspired by the latest in fashion, music, travel and people-watching. I’m lucky enough to be in an industry where I’m surrounded by inspiring young creatives who always keep me on my toes. We all inspire each other daily.
