Pocket-sized beginnings make for lasting steps

Nadine de Guzman’s simple everyday struggle of carrying an extra pair of shoes just to get through the day led to something very promising.

Before becoming the founder of the local footwear brand Posh Pocket, Lansangan worked in advertising in Makati, where her daily routine involved wearing heels to the office and switching to more comfortable footwear whenever she could.

“I got tired of wearing heels because I had to wear them at work. I would bring another pair of shoes, sometimes in a paper bag or plastic,” she told DAILY TRIBUNE.

That inconvenience eventually became the inspiration behind a brand built around the idea of stylish, practical footwear that women could easily bring anywhere.

The name itself reflects its beginnings. A combination of “posh,” “pocket,” and “shoes,” the brand first introduced compact footwear solutions before growing into a wider collection of everyday pairs.

Building their own path

Posh Pocket initially gained attention for its convertible shoes, particularly designs that allowed women to keep a comfortable pair of flats inside a compact package and switch footwear when needed.

Over the years, however, the brand evolved alongside its customers.

“What started as a compact pair of shoes eventually became a book — it’s everywhere here. You have the flats, then you put the high heels inside the convertible toes,” Lansangan said.

As more customers discovered the brand, it expanded beyond its original concept. The designs became more premium, moving away from synthetic materials and focusing on better-quality options, including leather pieces.

The shift also reflected a change in consumer preferences, with more people looking for products that are made to last rather than simply following fast fashion cycles.

Behind Posh Pocket’s growth was also a major turning point: taking control of its own production.

Lansangan shares that the brand previously worked with external manufacturers but eventually faced challenges involving design protection and quality control.

“We used to outsource. We used to have a manufacturer, but we had issues with our manufacturer before. They copied their designs and then they were sending it to other brands,” she said.

The experience pushed Lansangan and her husband to establish their own factory, allowing them to work directly with shoemakers and oversee the entire process.

“Working with our team of shoemakers, it’s hard, because you have to manage the team, but I think it’s more sustainable because now we can control our supply chain,” she said.

Having their own production space became even more meaningful as Lansangan entered motherhood and balanced running a business with raising her children.

Filipino craftsmanship

After years of joining bazaars, pop-ups and connecting with customers directly, Posh Pocket eventually opened its first outlet, a milestone that marked a new chapter for the brand.

The growth came at a time when buying habits were also changing. Lansangan noticed that consumers were becoming more deliberate about their purchases, choosing pieces they could keep and use longer.

“After the pandemic, a lot of customers wanted something specific,” she said. “People now really want something that’s specifically made for them.”

She believes the rise of social media has also influenced this shift, as consumers look for pieces that feel more personal in a world where trends can quickly become repetitive.

With this in mind, Posh Pocket continues to offer options that prioritize craftsmanship, including made-to-order pieces that allow customers to wait for something created specifically for them.

The future of Philippine footwear lies in creating pieces that highlight local skill and timeless design, Lansangan reiterated.

“We really have a dream for Posh Pocket to be worldwide. But for now, we’re happy that the local Filipino shoe industry is growing,” she said.

She sees collaboration among local footwear makers as an important step forward, especially as more brands work together to showcase Filipino craftsmanship.

Rather than chasing trends, Lansangan hopes Posh Pocket can continue creating classic pieces that remain relevant beyond seasons.

“It’s not fast fashion, but classic pieces so that they can last,” she said.

For a brand that began with the simple need for a convenient pair of shoes, Posh Pocket has grown into something bigger, a reminder that thoughtful design and Filipino craftsmanship can take every step further.