Accessories
designer Orla Kiely has turned her hand to footwear design for a new
collaboration with Clarks footwear. Bringing her retro inspired look to the new
shoes, Orla has created several new styles, each with their own unique spin and
a strong 60s look, some featuring a subtle floral print. Opening up on the
collection, Orla says it was inspiring to see how Clarks make shoes and a very
exciting opportunity for her: "I love Clarks for its heritage
and Britishness. I grew up with Clarks, as most Brits do, and was very excited
to work together with the brand. I felt we could bring something new to Clarks
with our signature colours and aesthetic – mid-century 60’s/70’s feeling with a
contemporary twist."
Orla
has never designed shoes prior to the collection and says that it was
interesting to get a view of the process works from start to finish. She adds
that it was unique to step in to a whole new territory and tackle aspects such
as shoe shape: "I've never done a shoe collaboration before. It
was interesting to see the full process and how my design aesthetic would work
best with the Clarks brand. With my previous collaborations, we've used prints
from our archives and more recently designed new prints - but for the shoes it
was more about designing shoe shapes, styles and design accents - which was
exciting and fun! Clarks has been one of my favourite collaborations to date.
I’m very happy with the result, to combine design, style, comfort and quality is
difficult and I think we have achieved it with this collaboration."
The
collection is now available to buy through Clarks online store.
