I studied shoe design at Cordwainers College in London about a million years ago – this was before it was absorbed into the London College of Fashion. The design program was not nearly as dynamic as it is now, and I admit I found it very restrictive. I loved designing and making shoes, but I could never manage to stick within the parameters of the design briefs. I don’t blame the course leader for asking me to leave a few months before graduation. To be honest, I am amazed she waited that long.
And I’d like to say that I would do it differently if I had the opportunity to do it all again, but I know that isn’t the case. I loved outrageous designs then, and I love them even more now. And I am thrilled that the current Cordwainers curriculum encourages innovative design.
For various reasons I never pursued a career as a shoe designer, but my obsession with shoes has never gone away. If anything, it’s gotten worse, and I decided it would probably be healthy to focus my obsession into a website that would provide information about independent shoe designers and retailers.
There are a lot of talented designers all over the world who are creating shoes that don’t reach a wide audience. Maybe the designer is new or undiscovered, or perhaps the collections are too small or too … shall we say…outside the box to be carried by a large retailer. I have spent years actively seeking out new shoe designers, and I feel honored to be able to bring these designers to a new audience.
I am also passionate about sustainability and responsible production methods, and I am always excited when a designer I love is similarly committed. I believe this is the way forward for our world.
I welcome any input about independent footwear designers and retailers that you think would be an appropriate addition to this site, so please don’t hesitate to contact me at jenna@lustforshoes.com with recommendations. I would love to hear from you.
Kind regards.
Jenna
