INTERVIEW: Celebrity Footwear Designer, Ritch Erani, On The Launch Of His “Ritch In Life” Podcast

New York fashion industry icon, Ritch Erani, co-founder of luxury shoe salon CHUCKiES and designer of Ritch Erani NYFC, is starting an all-encompassing podcast, “Ritch in Life.” Erani co-founded the luxury shoe salon at the age of sixteen, curating the store to represent the glory days of fashion while providing women with luxury goods that make them look and feel their best. His other business venture, shoe line Ritch Erani NYFC, is comprised of modern, chic shoes that pull any look together.

Erani wants to help women and men put their best foot forward (literally and figuratively), whether that be by designing the perfect shoe or by offering life advice we all desperately need. His personal and professional life has made him an expert in fashion, the consumer, relationships, and self-love, equipping him with the tools to start “Ritch in Life.” This podcast will offer listeners some entertainment while helping them navigate the complexities of life.

Why did you decide to start a podcast?

RE: Over the years I’ve talked and listened so much to some of the most interesting people, styling and giving advice. I thought I would bring it to a wider audience. It’s fun, and I don’t have to repeat myself as much.

What are a few style tips you can give our readers?

RE: Try stretch pants instead of leggings. Take a size bigger and let them drop a little at the hip. So chic and still comfortable.

From your perspective, how has the retail industry changed over the last decade and how do you predict it is going to continue shifting and evolving in the next few years?

RE: Consumers are less inclined now to be styled by their sales assistant. They know what they want and buy it online. It’s almost as if shopping in stores has lost its cachet. It’s all about convenience. I think it will flip flop over the next few years in terms of boutique vs. online. But one thing seems clear, most consumers no longer want anything enough to pay full price when talking about the couture or designer brands.

What are a few of your favorite fashion trends this summer for both women and men?

RE: Definitely not masks. I love boho or loose dresses with flats. For men I love the cut of dress pants with sneakers and a button down.

What piece of advice would you give someone who is trying to make a positive change in their life?

RE: Get out of your comfort zone, literally and figuratively. Start with stepping it up a notch with your wardrobe. Even if nobody is looking. You will feel better about yourself, and it will manifest to other positive habits.

After years of working in retail and interacting with people from all walks of life, what is your biggest take away and what have you learned from listening to them?

RE: Funny, it’s exactly what I talk about on the podcast. The grass is not always greener, one size does not fit all.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

RE: Don’t be hard on yourself, in ten years we will all look back and think, “I was so young and beautiful.” The great thing about this quote is it’s applicable to every age.

I can’t wait to listen to “Ritch in Life,” which is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRADIO, and wherever else you choose to listen to your favorite podcasts.

For more information, visit www.ritcherani.com.