Footwear Design

Jimmy Choo, Chloe, Marc Jacobs, Bottega Veneta, Miu Miu, Marni, Fendi, Pedro Garcia, Prada - are all well known names in the fashion footwear world. As well as the many fashion courses that available in the UK, there are now a number of specific courses in footwear design.

De Montfort University offers the only single  Footwear Design degree but there are now a few courses that offer modules in this area or very closely related which will give you the chance to have an introduction to studio design and workshop practice in fashion, textiles, footwear and accessories.

Example areas of study

All the courses develop students' design and technical skills, so that they are able to make a range of prototype shoes of their own. There are opportunities for visits to tanneries and exhibitions, and to work on 'live' freelance projects in collaboration with industry. Check with admissions tutors of each course to find out what it involves, their core and optional modules and the career destinations of recent graduates. The following are a selection to give you an insight into Footwear Design as a degree subject:

• Design research
• Design skills and concepts
• Computer-aided design
• Visual studies
• Pattern cutting
• Design, experimentation and development of prototype footwear styles, including men's, women's, children's and performance wear)
• Construction principles and techniques
• Technical skills development
• Design management and marketing
• Photography and styling
• Fashion forecasting
• Folio presentation
• Workshop practice
• Research and project development

Some career possibilities

Graduates have found work as footwear designers, agents and buyers with companies such as Gucci, Red or Dead, Lacoste, Reebok and Kickers. Many have established their own businesses, while postgraduate study and higher degrees provide another option.

What do I need to get on a course?

Depending on the course, for entry to an honours degree you will need to attend an interview and to have:

• UCAS Tariff: 180-240 points including an art and design subject
• Foundation course: Art and Design
• Portfolio
• GCSE profile at grade C or above (including English language and preferably maths)

For your application or interview, evidence of the following could be useful:

• Flair for design and a passion for shoes!
• You will probably be required to present your portfolio as part of the application process for most surface pattern design courses. This should include designs and photographs of finished pieces that you have produced as part of previous study and in your own time. You should be able to discuss each piece with confidence at your interview.

To find out more about the typical subjects you will study, potential career paths and further information useful for your application log-on to Course Discover at www.coursediscoveronline.co.uk*

*NB: Your school or college will need a subscription to Course Discover in order for you to gain access, for further information go to:www.coursediscover.co.uk