Sadi Studios Is the Gender-Inclusive Footwear Brand Designing for Everyone
Worn by KATSEYE, Jennie and Megan Thee Stallion, the LA-based label is one to watch.
As soon as we spotted the brand’s croc-textured Nemo wedges on our Instagram FYP, we knew that Sadi Studios was something special. Founded by Sarah Ahn-Ianni in Los Angeles back in 2022, the brand has since garnered an impressive following all over the globe, partly due to its statement designs, but also because of its extended size range, specifically developed to cater to drag queens and trans women.
Taking inspiration from the styles that Ianni coveted and couldn’t afford growing up, the brand has become known for its statement square toes and chunky wedges. Since its inception, Sadi Studios has been worn by the likes of Jennie, KATSEYE and Megan Thee Stallion, just in case you weren’t already impressed…
As Sadi gears up to launch its newest style later this year, we caught up with Ianni to find out more about her creative process, current collection and plans for the future.
Read on for the full interview and head to the Sadi Studios website for a closer look at the brand’s current collection.
Name: Sarah Ahn-Ianni
Location: Los Angeles
Occupation: Co-Founder / Creative Director
Tell us a bit about the decision to start Sadi Studios. What was the starting point for you?
I always knew I wanted to build something of my own — shoes that my friends and I would actually want to wear. That was always the starting point and the filter for everything we do.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Mostly from people watching. I’m always noticing the most interesting, well-dressed people — that could be on the street, in a film, an anime, or whilst I’m travelling. Just certain moments where someone’s look really speaks to you. I also pull a lot from nostalgia; older trends or styles I was obsessed with growing up, but couldn’t afford at the time. In many ways, I think I design for my teenage or early-adult self.
For example, the CHOO was inspired by the Manolo x Timberlands. I wanted a pair so badly when I was younger, and always knew I wanted to create a modern version of that feeling, but done in a very Sadi way.
What can you tell us about your creative process? How often do you design and launch new styles?
Right now I’m focused on smaller capsule drops — around two to four a year. Sometimes it starts with a gap in my own wardrobe, a silhouette I’ve been desperate to wear but can’t find anywhere. Other times, it goes the other way entirely: I’ll be out sourcing materials, fall completely in love with a fabric or swatch, and end up designing around it instead.
I also design spontaneously. Ideas come when they come, and the journey from idea to final sample can take months. Honestly, not many designs make the cut, and I’m fine with that. I’d rather put out fewer things that my circle genuinely loves than overproduce just for the sake of having something new.
What’s been your favourite silhouette that you’ve designed so far, and why?
My absolute favourite is actually still to come — a new shape I’ve been quietly working on for FW26, dropping later this year. Don’t want to ruin the surprise, but as a hint, it’s a reimagined moto boot with a Sadi twist.
But from what’s out now? One of our best-sellers, the HAN boots, without question. I’ve always been a boot girl, and that asymmetrical toe against the square mini platform feels like a proper Sadi signature to me. Plus (and I say this as someone who has worn a lot of heels), they are genuinely so comfortable. People are always really surprised by that, given the heel height!
Inclusive design and extended sizing are a key part of the Sadi Studios offering — why is that important to you?
I wanted my friends and I to feel represented, and to have the freedom to actually wear what we want, rather than being limited by what the industry decides is “standard.” Footwear has been so far behind clothing on this, and it’s always frustrated me. I was also just tired of seeing the most stunning tall women and drag queens teetering on heels that were two sizes too small. It’s 2026 — there’s no reason that should still be the case!
As an independent label, how do you navigate the changing world of AI campaigns, fast fashion dupes and TikTok trends?
You kind of don’t. You stick to what you’re doing, keep calm and carry on. As a small brand, you just have to trust that there’s a reason you exist and that what you’re building has its own space.
Finally, what’s next for the brand?
Expanding our size range further and growing into new categories is the practical answer. But what I’m really excited about is continuing to build our Sadi community. Creating a space where people can come, connect, and shop in a way that actually feels personal. Less transactional, more like you’ve found your people.
I try to take it all in day by day, because in 2022, my dream was simply seeing people wearing my designs. Now that we’re here, and Sadi has gotten so much love, I’m just so grateful.
