Designing is in the genes for Angela and Vanessa Simmons, daughters of Joseph Simmons a.k.a Rev. Run, the rapper-turned-reality show star and co-owner of Run Athletics, with $4 million in sales in 2006. The two have launched a new company that FEATURE playful, trendy footwear for young women.
“We wanted to create a sneaker for girls by girls,” said Vanessa, 23, who helped design the shoes, which are manufactured by Run Athletics, with her sister.
The fashion company, dubbed Pastry Footwear, debuted in March with colorful, mid-priced athletic shoes, carrying tasty names such as Chocolate Mousse, Strawberry Shortcake, Red Velvet, and Sprinkles.
Initial sales figures were not available, but the shoes sell for $64.99 and are available at Against All Odds, Sneaker Villa, and Underground Station stores.
According to Angela, 19, the designers hope to someday make their footwear part of a full fashion line of clothing, makeup and perfume. “Our dad plays a really big role. We don’t do business without talking to him first.”