Interviewed Dariga Masenova Sofia Webster, a talented British shoe designer, is only 27 years old, but she has already become “Next Big Thing” in the fashion industry. The 2012 Rising Shoe Designer, according to the provocative Conde Nast, Webster won the New Gen Award twice from the British Fashion Consulate.
The enterprising girl disposed of the grant wisely, releasing her own collection of shoes, which became an uncompromising hit of the season "Spring-Summer 2013". Bright “candy” motifs, neon tones, polka-dot prints, cute hearts and a sexy “leopard” - Sophia Webster's debut collection is presented very “appetizingly”. Webster told us about the transformation of a recent student into the hottest shoe designer in an exclusive interview.
You have a fairly strong base. Tell us more about education.
First, I entered Campbell College School of the Arts, and then I entered Cordwainers in East London. Here I learned not only the design, but also the process of making shoes. How, for example, to create patterns and clippings for shoes. Knowledge of technology is necessary, because it determines the possible limitations in the work. Design can be highly artistic. If shoes are uncomfortable and impractical, then what is the point ?! Shoes, first of all, should be “wearable”. The first two years you study theory, and the next year you spend directly in production. For me, the practice began with the brand Georgiana Goodman. In the final year you need to submit your own collection. After graduating in 2008, I entered a graduate school at the Royal College of Art, where I was offered a place in the field of shoe design. Thanks to my full concentration at work, I was able to find my own style.
How did you develop an interest in shoes?
I always wanted to be an artist. Once, back in the art school, we had a day of drawing from nature, and the object was fashion elements. I was completely inspired by drawing shoes and made a lot of sketches. After seeing my work, the teacher said that I can specialize in shoe design. Then I did not even know about such a prospect, but, having started, I realized that it was mine. I can’t say that since childhood I dreamed of becoming a designer. I just liked to draw, and the passion for shoes came while studying. I love my work very much, so I think I made the right choice.
What will happen if you come up with the idea of a fantastic shoe design that is not entirely practical. Do you realize it only because it is art?
No, I would find a way to adapt the design. I see no reason to create shoes that are impossible to wear. Then it turns out just a sculpture.
At one of the contests, designer Nicholas Kirkwood offered you a job. How did Nicholas react to your debut?
I wanted to release my own collection right after college. But Nicholas and his partner Christopher suggested that I work with them for 2 years before moving on. I needed to understand the specifics of the industry. Now I understand that I could not release my own line 2 years ago. Nicholas supports me very much; he is one of the main teachers for me. Even now, when you need advice, I can always turn to him.
They say that if a student surpasses his teacher, it means that the teacher was very good. Do you think you can beat your mentors?
I think we are very different, so there can be no talk of any kind of "competition".
What inspire you the work of Yayoi Kusama?
Yayoi is a very talented graphic designer. She works mainly with vibrant colors and polka dot prints.
What are indispensable attributes of your brand?
Elements of the game, femininity and brightness.
What would you recommend to young designers?
I can definitely say that there is no need to rush things. Everything will come in due time. The most important thing is to gain as much experience as possible with recognized professionals before starting your own business. This will help predict the problems that arise in the process at different levels.
Which of your works do you particularly like?
"Sunset in Rio." I spent a very long time in the south of Brazil, supervising the work in the factory where my shoes were made. Rio's magical aura is reflected in this collection. There is another version - "Dawn in Rio." Both of these couples cheer me up.
I am sure our ladies will also appreciate them, and someday we will see your boutique in Russia ...
Russia for me is still an unknown world. Definitely, there I would find inspiration for the new collection!
Well, our readers will be able to play the shopping appetite and cheer themselves up using the creations of Sofia Webster at Bloomingdale's. Have a nice shopping!
