Elizabeth Street Meets the Sisters Behind Newbark

Celebrity fashion stylists Marjan and Maryam Malakpour are the duo behind the celeb mom-approved accessories line Newbark

If you’re not familiar with Newbark, chances are you’ve still spotted their chic flat leather slip-on shoes in paparazzi shots of famously fashionable moms, such as Elle Macpherson and Josie Maran. Newbark is the creation of hot celebrity stylists—and sisters—Marjan and Maryam Malakpour. Collectively, they have styled some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Heidi Klum, Courtney Cox and Halle Berry. They felt the need to create Newbark when their feet started crying out for something more comfortable than stilettos. “We felt like there was something missing that was cooler and edgier than ballerina flats,” says Maryam, who has a four-year-old daughter named Sophie. “All of our bags and shoes are practical, easy and lightweight. The line is meant for all of those fashionable, busy moms who love to travel.”

The initial concept behind Newbark was a line of cool flats that can be whipped out of your bag when your feet get tired. “The original Newbark was a Moroccan moccasin that you can fold and put in your pocket,” says Maryam. “We also do motorcycle boots, the now famous Joey boots. We get reorders on two to three pairs, because people are afraid we’re not going to do it again.” Besides their insanely comfortable shoes, the Malakpours have designed very clever totes and purses, perfect for multitasking moms who don’t want to sacrifice style for function. “We created a pouchette that fits your laptop, magazines, papers but it’s very thin so you can slide it into the seat pocket if you’re on an airplane,” explains Marjan. Another great option for moms is their reversible tote, which is perfect for switching things up. —Melissa Schweiger