A Shoe for Shoon
Mon, 04 Aug 2014 08:59:00 BST
Four University of Huddersfield Fashion Design students have recently become finalists in the ‘A Shoe for Shoon’ competition. Shoon is an independent company that designs quality shoes and is always looking for new innovative ideas in the world of footwear so this summer they decided to launch a competition for university students called ‘A Shoe for Shoon’. The ‘Shoon’ project required students to design a shoe that captures perfectly the personality and customer values of Shoon with a new look for their 40+ market which is modern, fresh, fashionable and practical, giving a new take on the classics.
Laura Jane Kerry, a first year Fashion Design with Textiles student and winner of the competition told us “designing for Shoon's target market was an age range that I personally had never designed for. It was important that my shoe was in keeping with the style of Shoon and so I was greatly influenced by the accessories and handbags they also sold. My designs were inspired for the woman with a sense of adventure and constantly on the go. My dream would be to work as part of a design team for a fashion house or independent designer. I also love fashion journalism which is something I'd definitely be interested in pursuing.”
Commenting on Laura Kerry’s work, Lucy Collins, Web Team at Shoon said “Great unit, perfect height and lovely colours.”
Debbie Allsop, Fashion and Textiles lecturer told us “I am delighted that we have four students in the final shortlist. This was a great project for first years, as they were able to focus design development around footwear, which is something they have not previously encountered in a fashion design brief.
Agnieszka Kaluza, second year Fashion Design with Marketing and Production student told us “my inspiration for this project was a day in the life of an active woman who needs comfortable everyday shoes. Selecting the right footwear for working in the office, going for lunch or dinner and meeting with friends is always a problem. Therefore, women value comfort and versatility that is not available in all stores. They also share a desire of having good quality products that will last longer. My hopes for the future are to work in the fashion industry and be surrounded by creative people.”
Commenting on Agnieszka Kaluza’s work, Lucy Collins said “Nice balance of colours on a classic style with a twist”.
Bethany Pedder, first year Fashion Design with Textiles told us “I designed a shoe using illustrator and Photoshop, I did an illustration of the shoe and flat working drawings also. The shoe has a grey chunky block heel which keeps the shoe very trendy and current. It is comfortable and wearable, but also stylish. In the future I am quite interested in going into styling however I am excited to see what my placement year brings so I hope to get more of a clear idea of my plans for the future.”
Commenting on Bethany Peddar’s work, Lucy Collins said “An adventurous shoe bootie, loved the interweave”
Gemma Bissett, first year Fashion Design with Textiles chose to design a shoe which was a twist on a classic loafer. This meant the shoe would be timeless, suitable for all ages and wearable throughout the seasons. She told us “my plans for the future are to work in pattern cutting or dressmaking; anything that requires problem solving and hands on work.”
Commenting on Gemma Bissett’s work, Lucy Collins said “Loved the interpretation of fringe and futuristic heel”
To see competition winner Laura Kerry’s, Q&A with Shoon please visit their blog at http://www.shoon.com/articles
