DESIGN NAME: Pout
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Boot
INSPIRATION: This design was inspired by a footwear accessory trend that existed between the 1700s and early 1900s called spats. A spat is an external shoe cover, that fastens underneath the bottom of the shoe and along the side of the shoe, covering the upper. Historically, the purpose of a spat was to protect the shoe from debris, mud and water while outside, but eventually spats became a fashion statement. I was inspired to modernize the concept of a spat, and integrate a pocket for additional utility. I also wanted to add an element of versatility to the boot, making the strap-on pocket removable. This in essence creates two separate design aesthetics for the same boot.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: With its audacious, ankle-hugging silhouette and bold, strap-on removable pocket, Pout can be worn year-round in season-defying bone. The pocket gives Pout an urban chic edge, while solo the shoe’s sleek lines broadcast epic elegance. Rather than inspiring a pout, its sartorial versatility offers much to celebrate.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: Shoes are a form of communication; they represent dreams and emotions. Kendall Miles Designs exude elegance and sexuality with a huge emphasis on femininity. The shoes transform a woman's personality, attitude, character and gait, and allow her to express her innermost self and intentions. Our unique designs make statements that align with individual personality traits, or speak to the way in which a woman fantasizes or desires to be perceived. Quality, traditional craftsmanship, artistry and intimacy are the values that shape this brand’s style. Our goal is to mix fantasy with practicality, eclecticism with vitality. Each pair makes a woman feel strong and confident by blending classicism and modernism with a functional yet elegant design.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The design process started in August 2015 in Los Angeles, California and finished in December 2015 in Florence, Italy. It was then exhibited at FFANY in February 2016.
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: Just as depicted in my sketch, Pout was assembled in Florence, Italy using the finest hand craftsmanship the world has to offer. First, I designed the pointed toe boot last and the 120mm heel. Once those were tested and approved, we ordered the rest of the components necessary (outsole, insole, materials, hardware, etc). When everything arrived in the factory, the upper was stitched, the removable bag was made and the boot continued down the assembly line, stopping at each specialist for them to complete their responsibility and provide their expertise.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: 6" shaft, 14" circumference, 4.7" heel
TAGS: elegant, sexy, stiletto, boot, leather, removable, bag, quality, italy
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: Research included visiting vintage shops in Paris, in depth research of footwear trends in the early and mid 1900s, visiting Italian tanneries and hardware suppliers. My research objective was to determine how present day technological advancements could be applied to vintage details and historical trends resulting in a modern, classic design. Visual research provided me with the references and inspiration needed to interpret and expand upon, or develop further what is already in existence, while simultaneously inspiring individual and unique designs spurred by my own creativity. I’ve built a library of reference images that depict specific details from fashion, architecture, sculpture, technology, etc., found using search databases like ProQuest, social media platforms like Pinterest and Tumbler, and cultural fashion books. We tested the fit of the last we designed specifically for this boot to ensure that the dimensions were properly proportioned to provide comfort. The test consisted of a size 37 foot model parading around the factory for a day in the boots, while we studied how she reacted to influential technicalities like the toe box, pitch, and shaft. If we noticed discomfort, or the inability to perform a common task, we had to make the necessary adjustments to guarantee the practicality of the shoe. We also had to test several options to discovery the best method of application for the removable bag. The results were that the heel height on this boot is very tall, and the heel itself is very skinny, which limits the wearability of this specific boot to women with high arches, or impeccable balance. We also found that the best way to ensure that the removable bag is secure is to add a loop on the inside of the zipper to prevent the bag from sliding down the boot during wear. This is quite a unique product, I have never seen a boot with a removable bag on it. There has been no wildly celebrated effect of my research on business, society or design, yet.
CHALLENGE: The hardest part of bringing this design to life was designing the bag itself. Because the bag is the main detail of the shoe, it was imperative that its design also exude femininity and elegance with a refined sexuality. We went through 3 trials before we finally got the look we were going for.
ADDED DATE: 2017-02-27 21:46:34
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS: Photographer Shawn Alexander, 2016. Main image is image #1, optional image #1 is image #2, optional image #2 is image #3, optional image #3 is image #4.
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