A woman with dark, wavy hair talking on a corded telephone in a cluttered office space filled with papers, a doll, books, and various office supplies.

Alice McIntosh founded The Red Shoes in 1976. A lifelong dancer, performer and teacher, Alice brought more than 15 years of experience working for a wholesale and retail company before opening her own shop. She named the store after the classic 1948 film, The Red Shoes.

Originally located in Old Town Pasadena, the store relocated to South Pasadena in 1988. In April 2026, The Red Shoes will celebrate 50 years in business! Looking to the future, Alice’s granddaughters, Lily Nickelson and Jacqueline Pujara, are preparing to take ownership and carry forward the store’s mission--embracing inclusivity and ensuring every customer has an exceptional experience.

A painted mural of a shoe store with a red sign that says 'SHOES' in white letters, a separate vertical sign that says 'NEW ARRIVAL,' a large green tree in front, and parts of other storefronts beside it.