Mini Me

The name says it all.

I wanted to test all boundaries and design a range of stylish footwear for two very different age groups. After researching kids footwear, as well as asking every question under the sun to mums and dads all over Australia - I realised that there is not a lot to choose from when it comes to well made, stylish and comfortable leather shoes for little people. I took on the challenge and created a mini-me pair of ladies open toe booties and mens loafers that stay on the foot, offer room for grow as well as looking seriously cute on.

RM William's Desert Plaited Sandal

The RM William's competition is held every year and offers students the opportunity to design and make a pair of shoes that fit the RM brand.

We were given a brief to design a pair of Summer sandals for women aged between 30 and 50 years old. It is so important to follow the brief to give you boundaries which also enables you to create your own design that will fit in to the brand's theme. I wanted to adapt the look of RM William's shoes into my design by using raw edges, nubuck leather and handcrafted finishes. Prototyping was the most important part of the process, which allowed me to narrow it down to one design that suited the RM look and comfort finish.

The sandals, along with a story board of the design processes were presented to the RM William's team in Sydney, taking out first prize in the competition. They were also very pleased with the design, and have purchased it to use in RM William's next Summer range.

Animal Detail

Leopard, zebra, snake skin, sting ray, even crocodile! - I have always had a soft spot for animal prints whether it's on your shoes, clothes or accessories.

With too much, it can be over-powering and distasteful, but if you include the print as a small detail within the pair, it completes the shoe. These are a very simple design, with a slight wedge and jagged sole to give the pair personality.

A Golden Opportunity

It's all about the Gold Shield.

Crafted Comfort

To me, design is about the simplicity and quality of a product. A very talented Graphic Designer once told me that minimal is best, and I agree Dad, you're spot on.

It's in the Detail

They can be stylish, casual, or even both. 

Ankle boots are one of my favourite styles to design and make. I made this pair for my sister Lara, who is a creative and stylish little pocket rocket. This lead me in the direction of designing a pair of simple yet classic boots, that have a hint of something different - something that makes you look twice.

Less is More

When I meet people, I always look at their shoes - I believe it says a lot about someone, and not only their taste in footwear!

This is the first pair of men's shoes that I have made, so I wanted to design a pair that I find most attractive on a man - simple yet classic. I have noticed that men in Australia are becoming more interested, even fussy when it comes to footwear - which is great! A love for well made shoes shouldn't only be shared between women, but men too.  

I chose an Oxford style shoe, using a brown tanned leather with a wax finish. To give it an edge, I opted without laces. For this reason, elastic inside the shoe needs to be attached to hold the foot in. I also decided to make my own leather stack heel which has a nice natural finish when stained. Here is the step by step process of my first men's pair. I hope you like them.