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About the Founder

A Lifelong Passion for Shoes

For Lee Berzack, a lifelong passion for shoes took on new meaning during the pandemic. As the world slowed down, people reflected on what truly mattered. It was during this time that the idea for Pantoffel was rekindled—a brand dedicated to preserving traditional South African craftsmanship while creating and sustaining artisanal jobs. Founded in 2022, Pantoffel blends cultural heritage with timeless design, reimagining luxury sheepskin footwear for the modern world.

Lee’s journey began at London’s prestigious Central Saint Martins and Kingston University, where she honed her skills in fashion and design. A Cape Town native turned New York City transplant, she built an impressive career in the fashion industry before launching Pantoffel. Her deep appreciation for artisanship, design, and humanitarianism fuels her vision: a luxury lifestyle brand that is not exclusive, but inclusive.

The idea for Pantoffel was sparked by a simple yet profound moment—sitting around the dinner table with family, all wearing classic South African sheepskin slippers. Lee found herself wondering why there wasn’t a better-designed, high-quality sheepskin shoe that offered both comfort and style. She wanted something that felt like a slipper but didn’t look like one—something elegant, supportive, and versatile enough to wear all day, indoors or out, in both warm and cool weather.

In 2025, Pantoffel was officially launched as an evolution of the traditional South African sheepskin slipper—transformed into an elegant, everyday shoe. Each collection is released as a limited, small-batch capsule, with a focus on sustainability and a packaging-free approach. This new journey embraces the shifts in the industry, prioritizing direct-to-consumer e-commerce and social media-driven connection.

Pantoffel is more than just a shoe—it’s a reflection of a balanced lifestyle, designed for those who appreciate quality, heritage, and effortless sophistication.