60 years - 1964-1974 The Essence Era

Born in 1964 in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Jonak celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.
A grand celebration marking six decades that have shaped our history. Six eras that have molded Jonak's destiny
from its birth in Paris to its international expansion. Let's revisit the very first decade, from 1964 to 1974, the essence of the brand itself.


 

In 1964, in Paris, on rue Saint-Placide, Marcel and Josette Nakam opened their first shoe boutique.
At that time, everything was possible—society, fashion, art, upheavals, revolution, the desire to believe—it was the Sixties.
And already, in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, there was a vision, one of craftsmanship, a taste for beauty, and sincerity.
Alongside Marcel, in the small boutique at number 26, was his wife Josette, who stood out for her elegance and strength of character,
and their son Joseph, who didn't yet know that he would build, one stone at a time and as if by fate, one of the great names in French footwear.
By combining their first names and the Nakam surname to form the name "Jonak," Marcel sealed the fate: Jonak was and would remain a family adventure.

During that time, Jonak didn't yet offer its own collections but rather a selection of different shoe brands, as multi-brand stores were common.
The range was eclectic, with a particular focus on sensitive feet, as the store was located in a neighborhood with numerous convents,
and nuns formed a significant part of the clientele. Trendy shoes and classic models shared space on the store shelves,
attracting a diverse audience of young women keeping up with the times and passersby from the neighborhood.
 

This decade delineates the essence of Jonak: passion, quality, responsibility and loyalty are all values that underpin the brand and continue to reflect its current approach.