Skylar Porter Honored for Leadership, Fashion Innovation & Community Impact

Their journeys may span from entrepreneurs to engineers, founders to financial advisors, brewers to builders — but what unites the Gulfshore Business 40 Under 40 Class of 2025honorees is a shared commitment to excellence. Each has distinguished themselves professionally, rising as leaders in their respective industries. Just as important, they’ve stepped forward to uplift their communities through volunteerism, nonprofit support or simply by showing up when it matters most.

In a region known for early achievement and relentless ambition, this year’s 40 Under 40 class stands out not just for their professional success, but for leading with purpose and heart. Among these outstanding changemakers is Skylar Porter, founder and CEO of SkyStruk, a bold and fast-rising luxury women’s footwear brand known for empowering designs and unapologetic style.

Stepping Into Leadership—With Purpose and Passion

After years of building her career in the corporate world, Skylar felt a calling she could no longer ignore. Fueled by her deep love of fashion and desire to lead with creative freedom, she made one of the boldest moves of her life: launching SkyStruk, her own luxury shoe brand. With courage, vision, and determination, Skylar turned her passion into a purpose-driven business that empowers women—one statement-making step at a time.

“I’ve always had a love for fashion, especially bold statement pieces that make women feel powerful the moment they step into a room,” Skylar shares. “I’m also a super creative person with an entrepreneurial spirit, so building a brand from the ground up felt like a natural calling.“

But Skylar’s mission goes far beyond style. Her vision for SkyStruk is rooted in confidence, individuality, and the freedom to take up space—unapologetically.

“I wanted to build a brand that wasn’t just about shoes, but about confidence, individuality and taking up space unapologetically. Leaving behind stability to start SkyStruk was one of the scariest decisions I’ve ever made, but I’m willing to take the risk to see the reward—and hopefully inspire others to do the same.“

Building a Brand That Gives Back

Skylar’s commitment to empowerment isn’t just woven into her brand—it’s reflected in how she shows up for her community. Much like her shoes, which are designed to help women feel seen, powerful, and proud, her philanthropic work focuses on lifting others.

She proudly sponsors Wine, Women and Shoes, an elegant Naples event benefiting the Naples Cancer Alliance, where fashion and philanthropy meet to make a meaningful impact. Skylar has also lent her support to Bourbon, Cigars and Stilettos, an event raising funds for Grit & Grace Leadership Academy, which helps develop strong, self-assured young women into future leaders.

Even her soft spot for four-legged friends finds expression in her outreach. Skylar has sponsored the Puppy Prom, a charming community event supporting Wags to Wishes and Collier County Domestic Animal Services, helping local animals find loving homes.

An Inspiring Future in Motion

Skylar’s journey is still unfolding, but her mark on Southwest Florida—and the world of fashion—is undeniable. As a Gulfshore Business 40 Under 40, Class of 2025, honoree, she joins a robust network of visionaries shaping the future of their industries and communities with both excellence and empathy.

Skylar Porter is more than a fashion founder—she’s a changemaker, a mentor, and an advocate for those ready to rise. Whether Skylar is designing shoes that sparkle with confidence or sponsoring events that support local causes, she continues to lead with the same energy that defines SkyStruk: bold, inspiring, and beautifully unapologetic.