Jan
21
Black Suede Ankle Boot
Learning how to make shoes is a mind bending process, especially if you’ve never made them before. It took me three months to figure out everything I needed to, acquire all the tools needed and etc. Actually gathering the materials and tools took up half the time. The other half was the execution.
Also, I’ve been getting so many comments about showing the process of how I make things, well today I am responding to all of you who are so curious about “behind the scenes” and what it looks like in my studio when I’m stressed out. The pictures presented today are less pre-determined, no drama, no setting up (though I will revert back to my anal tendencies soon). Today the pictures are about presenting a struggle between not knowing anything about a process, and trying to learn it.
Shoe lasts. There are so many different kinds of shapes. This is where your shoe design really starts, because you’re going to sculpt the design around the shape of the last. I wish I could collect more, but for now I’ve collected about 7-8 different shoe lasts.
Different heels. I didn’t use a heel for my design (I used a wedge) but I acquired some for future reference.
Shoe tools, a knife, shaver, and a shoe shank. The shank is that curved metal device, it goes in the middle of the sole to give support to the sole.
Here I’m tracing the shoe pattern which was drafted off the 3 dimensional last.
I used suede for my final prototype.
This white piece (forgot the name sorry!) is heated onto the leather pattern (in the “Toe Box” section of the shoe) after its been dunked in leather stretcher. It gives the front toe box portion of the shoe some extra strength. You actually don’t have to use this though, you can use multiple layers of muslin glued on for the top portion. This gives it extra support, otherwise it would be too soft to mold it over the last.
This is the back portion of the shoe, most often referred to as the “Counter” the part that covers right below your ankle…. This area of the shoe also needs extra support so this pink piece dunked in leather stretcher is also heated onto the counter. One usually uses an iron to heat this piece onto the pattern. To know more about shoe anatomy, go here!
When I’m working my table turns into a mess. This is what my mind feels like. Times three. This is the point where I make more coffee or eat a bag of chips to alleviate my mind state.
This is when you pull your shoe pattern over the last. And then you nail it down.
You can see the shoe starting to come together. Its been molded over the last. Also, this shoe design is extremely minimal for a reason. There was no way I was going to construct a gratuitous design with endless straps buckles and studs. I was tempted to, but I’ve had way too many “biting off more than you can chew” experiences so I was going to remain calm about the design. I was determined, determined to the point where I was having shoe nightmares, to learn the process from scratch, so I knew the design had to be within my means. Now that I know the process, I can have more freedom with future shoe designs. I have to admit something, making shoes is a lot more fun than making clothes. Its also easier and takes less time.
Here I introduce to you my monstrous wedge. How was this made? I bought planks of 1” thick foam crepe and stacked them. The shapes were cut to fit the shoe sole, and then after they were all stacked I sanded it all down to get a more sculpted and lean effect. I could not find huge platforms so I had to build the platform wedge from scratch.
To give the platform extra support, its necessary to screw holes and fill them in with long metal nails. You saw the nails in the previous pics.
After the wedge is ready, the suede is glued onto the platform with special cement.
And its important to leave extra suede that goes above the actual wedge so you can fold it over and place the insole over it.
This ones’ a failed attempt! You notice, this one is made out of leather, not suede. My successful prototype was the suede one, but this was the shoe I made BEFORE the suede ankle boot. You notice how the leather is NOT molded properly over the last and its creating all these stretched out lines. Thats a horrible shoe. But with this failed attempt I figured out the most difficult part of making the shoe. Without it I would have never finished.
Anyway, back to the shoe that will become my final prototype..the insole is ready to be attached to the wedge. I will post about this process later, I have way too many pictures in this one. You can see its getting dark in my studio!
My two favorite shoes right now in my closet. You might think its egotistical to like your own design. Truth be told I usually hate most of what I make, but this shoe is so simple, basic, comfortable..and has an insanely tall wedge heel. It also has gel pads incorporated into the insole for extra comfort. It was exactly what I needed, what I was looking for.
The easiest way to draft a shoe last pattern is with a center seam. If you make a seamless shoe, it gets harder when you sculpt it over the last. This is why the design looks this way because it was executable for my first shoe.
Every cobbler has a distinct way of leaving their mark. Mine was a bright green lambskin lining.
The design of this shoe was inspired by these boots I wear often. But I stripped away all of the excess lacing and belting details…and jacked up the platform.
After months of mind bending torture, I get to wear them.
absolutely mind blowing.
thanks for showing the process, i love your more “anal” posts but it was interesting to see the learning curve!!
Glad you like the other “anal” posts! Some people hate ‘em but I can’t please everyone!
This is seriously my favourite post so far!!
As someone who sews I am so fascinated the process. Thank you so much!
And I am really looking forward to what you come up with in the future shoe-wise!
http://www.hopeless.etsy.com
Congrats, looks really nice with your gunmetal skinnypants. I would like a tall pair of shoes this year, just planning how to mix it well with a men’s outfit.
Love the shoes! But how did you get those zips?
All that waiting was so worth it.
Ji these are a-fucking-mazing.
You should be so proud.
Finally, a wedge ankle bootie that appeals to me..
One that is not being worn on the feet of everyone on lookbook and their hipster neighbour.
So speechless.
You are a genius.
Wow. I will never look at shoes the same way again…
I really hope this blog is all you b.c. your d-i-y message is so inspiring.
Have you worn these babies out in public yet?
These are simply quite amazing. No more words will form.
first!!
i am so glad for twitter.
these shoes are amazing. i wish i had the time, talent, and most importantly the PATIENCE to make things like these. and no, it is not egotistical to like your own creations, merely human
thank you once again for such an amazing post.
btw how on earth do you walk in those?! jealous. insanely.
HOLY SHIT! you are like mozart-level genius! where/how did you get the zipper pull made?
cooooool! your photos really help. I have been thinking about this alot lately. I feel like I can do it now.
SWEET WEDGES!
i have been waiting so very very long for this post and you did not disappoint. great work and i can only imagine what the entire process has been like. but thank you for sharing because quite frankly there is no where else on the internet i cant think of that is writing/sharing/talking about this sort of thing the way you do.
AMAZINGG!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wow I love your blog. love it love it love it. and making shoes from scratch must be like a dream come true!
Kind of is!!! But the high has died down a little now!!
Love it. You’re absolutely brilliant!
Very impressive!
My head hurts with the awesomeness of this blog, and I have this urge to genuflect or something.
MONSTROUS THINGIES!
Wow! Every time I visit your site, I am impressed. You’re always tackling some new challenge whether fashion or culinary! I was thinking about taking an accessories making class, and now I’m totally inspired.
I love the photos of your process! Can’t wait to see the next pair.
Omg….wow!!! I remember you talking about your shoe project a while ago…and I kinda forgot until I saw your tweet. These are AMAZING! I mean you must hear this all the time, but seriously…these are sublime! Hm…and is that almost 8 inches? Totally trumps my 6.5 wedges!
xx
V
it’s so amazing seeing the process of such work of art being made.
just went through all your archives and fell in love with your blog once more.
thanks for all the inspiration!
Clearly, I bow down to you. Not a whole lot more can be said!
this is so impressive!
how did you get/make the zipper tag? that and the chunky zipper are almost my favourite part.
I’ve been following your blog for a few months and have been impressed with everything, but this tops it all. Amazing work! It’s even more special that you made these from scratch.
fantastic- didn’t know how much work shoes would be…
I AM COMPLETELY CONVINCED THAT YOU ARE A GODDESS
it’s official, my mind is BLOWN
Just fantastic, as always
Thank you thank you thank you for always being so inspiring! I’m going to study fashion design at university next year and what you do makes me so excited about it. I’ve always played it pretty safe when it comes to painting and drawing and making things but when I stumbled upon your blog all that changed (: Love the shoes, please don’t fall!
Aww I’m glad!!! Good luck with going to fashion school I wish I was back in that age…
Hi I just took a shoe making class so I really appreciate this post. I wanted to know where do you get your shoe lasts from? I have such a hard time finding them. And the white stuff you put on the toe is called a toe puff or at least thats what we called it in class.
Thank you so much for telling me, I seriously have the worst memory ever.
first of all great respect for your work here! I made shoes once and it was such a hard process (they looked like crab in the end but now I really appriciate having the possibility and a helping hand…) I also wanted to know where you get your zipps done?? they look amazing!
I think I just barfed with excitement. Seriously, such talent.
So amazing. I think you just helped me decide what my new project will be! As much as I love your “anal” posts, actually showing the process is amazing and inspiring. You are undoubtedly my favourite blog around.
genius…………omg…….. i’m speechless
you rock my world.
i am going to do this.. make my own shoes.. because these are fucking amazing.
omg. you are INSANE!
I LOVE IT.
I think I”d put a title that goes something like “Love the height of Mcqueen 2010 heels? But don’t want the bling and be able to walk AND feel comfortable too? WELL, Luxirare has the solution for you”
**I have always wanted to learn how to make shoes. I am a flat footer and wearing heels can be a little bit of a problem. You have showed by far the most insighfull post I’ve ever come across. I have finally realized, the time-consuming process of making one pair of good shoes are the idea, the gathering of materials & execution, This is why GOOD shoes are $$$$. **
Just gotta make sure you check the weather first before you wear those wedge. *Rain kills suede* =)
I’m actually the one person in the world who dislikes those Mcqueen shoes….I’m into the Nina Ricci’s.
Lady, you are amazing. With the amount of time and energy you put into each of your projects, I have to wonder — what do you do the rest of the time? Congrats on a beautifully crafted pair.
I had a feeling we’d be amazed by a shoe post soon. You have the unique ability to make me feel as though I am sitting in your studio and entering your mind. I think this is because you generously share your process, trials and inspirations behind your design.
I love your meticulously styled photoshoots but I am also delighted when you share your sketches, amusing side comments and design ideas – I feel this is an integral part of LUXIRARE – so please keep it in some form.
There is nothing left to say. If i could type my feelings right now i would but as technology hasn’t gotten that far i’m gonna remain quiet. My words would never be enough.
NL.
WOW! This absolutely slays me. Making my own shoes/custom made shoes in general is fascinating. It seems like it was an ambitious project but turned out SO well!
Woot! i had a building anticipation of over a Long period for this post and it proved to amazing. It is great to see the amount of work that went into making the shoes and the insanely amazing and high result. Hard to imagine walking in shoes that high, they must also be rather heavy. If the oppotunity was presented I’d definitely try doing what you did so well. Thanks for not giving up after the black leather shoe didn’t work out.
It’d be fun to see you make some crazy heel shape like McQueen. That would be some hard resin though… and a tough mold to set.
oh my god
……………………
oh my god
i’m having babies
this is incredible
Those are so killer! I recently got a pair of six inch platforms, it’s like walking on (fabulous) stilts. May your balance be steady and future outings in these free of uneven surfaces!
Always impressed dude! But seriously? Where to you get all of your logos/branding stuff from? Where did you get the zipper pulls made? Those shoes are mental, seriosuly insane dude
i simply have no words and i’m totally enamored looking at the whole process of making a shoe.. it’s mind-blowing really that you have all this abilities or rather are able to master every single thing that you want; be it cooking, tailoring your own magnificently made clothes and to making a perfect pair of boots. kudos luxi.
Where/how do you get your luxirare labels, zippers, etc?
Crazy this is your first try. They look flawless! If the foam crepe really sturdy enough? My first boots (http://blacklist.onsugar.com/3462094#comment) came out alright, but I had an entire semester and a teacher to help me. I also bought the ‘marcela 3 1/2′ last from kaufmans a few months ago so I can make another pair of shoes sometime.
bravo babe. Can’t wait to see what direction cobbling will take you!! walking in a seven inch wedge is quite a skill!! and you definitely don’t sound egotistical, it would make sense that your favorite pair would be the one you had dreamt of, and then created. xx molly
Wow. Cheers to more shoe posts in the future!
I’m excited to see what you’ll end up doing when you descend down into the world strappy shoes now that you’ve honed your skills.
I think it’s amazing that you have the patience to do all of the things you do!
GOOD FOR YOU !!! It is so wonderful to ride along as you achieve your goals.
You might find this place interesting: http://www.shapeways.com/
I bet you could 3-d print some interesting luxirare heels and wedges.
oh my god these are ridiculously amazing. i’ve created shoes designs exactly like this, which i find weird because it is so distinct… i can’t wait for the future because i know you will have amazing collaborations, and even a company. xo
Holy shit is there nothing you can’t do??? These are sick.
Congrats on making your first pair of shoes! I think the details like the zippers and lambskin lining are the best part.
My favorite post in months
OHMYGOD
YOU ARE A GODDESS. I BOW TO YOU IN EVERY PHYSICAL WAY POSSIBLE AND THEN SOME.
you are seriously amazing!
WOAH!
I love how determined you were to just figure this shit out on your own. I’m in awe.
Also, aren’t those platforms EXTREMELY awkward to walk in? I wouldn’t know how to take a step!
I had JUST decided that I needed to make a pair of shoes (or perhaps many!), and here you go and post about it! I’m really curious, where did you go about acquiring the technique? I know some places offer classes, but I’m not in a position to get to any of them! Is there a book you recommend? A website, perhaps?
Those will be in a museum someday, amazing!
I am very impressed with your shoes! I did shoemaking for a school project, and believe me, yours turned out much better. I had to order my lasts from a company from Germany called Minke. Sadly the only shoemaker I could find in Portland was a mens shoemaker so my shoes turned out to be too bulky. Believe me, getting the leather to fit the last without buckling was a touch job. Next time maybe try soaking it before so it molds closer to the last, and is more pliable. But my shoes were make of Kangaroo and Stingray which was IMPOSSIBLE to work with. I never ever recommend it. Also i am wondering, you MUST have had a teacher of some kind to teach you the ways of shoemaking.
Wow. You even have branded zipper pulls!
Are they sturdy at such a height?
This was a great post to read.
STOP IT. Please. You’re killing me. MAKING YOUR OWN SHOES? Beyond brilliant. Does talent simply ooze from your pores? WTF?!? Who makes their own shoes??? Oh. Luxirare. And that’s why we love her!
While I liked seeing this creative process, I *really* want to know where you found your boots WITH the buckles…care to share?
I agree who makes their own shoes??!?!?!
Fucking amazing, there is really nothing you cannot do.
INSANE. I’m speechless.
Mind bending torture is putting it lightly – these are amazing! How difficult are they to walk in?
wow, so interesting to see this process. I’ve harbored a secret desire to make shoes for a long time, maybe I’ll give it a go.
How do you call the roller puncher thing that looks like something from a torture chamber?
You mean the screw driver???
This is the most amazing thing ever! It makes me want to go to my local cobbler and just sit there and learn about the process. KUDOS.
Luxi (can I call you Luxi?) you are incredible. I love a simple & easy DIY as much as the next girl, and do them myself frequently, but there is SO MUCH more to be said for a “DIY” that that is so exhausting to look at in photos that I just kinda of have to sit back in awe at your brilliance. Nothing is greater than a creative girl with ambition. Except a creative girl with ambition and style.
And thank you for reminding me why I NEVER want to design. And I seriously mean that in the best way possible.
hahahhaah you’re welcome. I love your blog Jazzi!
Congratulations! . I love the end product! (especially the photograph from behind where you can see the zipper) I’m guessing the bottom of the shoe has to be extra hard to be able to withstand the nails used to nail the suede along with the long nails in the platform? Do you mind if I ask if you took out the nails that hold the suede? Or do they just stay in there?
Goodness, the things that one I am unaware of about what I’m wearing on my feet! I’m kind of fascinated now that I’ve never hurt myself with my heels or anything! Thanks to this post I am so grateful that people make shoes safe to wear.
amazing! it looks so easy!
may I ask, did you go to any kind of designschool/college/whatever?
Wow. Thanks for thousand times sharing this.
Personally I get most of mileage out from relatively minimalistic shoe designs. And being reading your blog for a while the overall design makes sense, there is certain special honesty and authenticity in design, probably just because you designed for your own needs.
I love all other signature details in this shoe design, except the Luxirare zipper pull – your other designs show just those subtle signature details (like screw base pattern in buttons or rivets – oh I see it in that stud in this new shoe, too) – a large visible logo thus looks out of place. But it might be just my allergy for visible logos!
Had Nike marketing department just met you before they adapted that infamous “just do it” slogan?
I just fell in love! I actually spent a lot of time researching how to make shoes one lazy saturday. But being me, I just never committed to actually making a pair because I didn’t think I could make one I’d actually want to wear. but this truly does inspire me. I do wish there was more steps and more instructions but I get why you had to cut it down, for artistic sake and what not. I’d love to pick your brain about it though.
I wasn’t sure at first because your site kind of confused me. But now I totally get it. This post was just what I needed.
Well it was my first shoe, if the design was ridiculous, I would have quit …Like making shoes is hard as it is…without the bells and whistles..so I knew I had to Keep it simple! But actually I really like this minimal design…but only after I was forced to minimize…weird.
Wow! These are really spectacular. I’ve been searching for the perfect pair of black platform wedges for a while now and these are absolutely perfect. The zipper detail is fantastic!
i am so impressed … not just that you made the shoes, but at your continual interest in learning and finding out about new processes and how things are done. i think that’s great, and very inspiring.
Thanks so much, I just told another commentator that now that I am done my life is back to meaningless nothing..you know struggling is all part of the pleasure though we don’t realize it in the moment.
I think I’m about breathless and about to pass out from this blog. You are always topping yourself time and time again. I thought about making my own shoes but I already find making clothes hard. HOLY GAHMOLLY, thank you for showing the process. If I were a lesbian I would so be into you. LOL I am not a lesbian BTW just showing my utmost admiration for you. Thank you for your awesome blogs.
I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU MADE SHOES. baller! that is my only word
Absolutely mind blowing.
Amazing post as always. Really insightful behind-the-scenes look at the creation process of shoes. Thanks for sharing!
This post is amazing. It is everything I love about your food posts without sacrificing any of what you put into you fashion posts. I beg of you – Please keep making posts like this every once in a while.
Also the shoes. Amazing. I can’t even begin to imagine how I might pull myself together enough to try and make such a project. Now I so desperately want to make shoes of my very own.
Was wondering where you got the zipper pull for them.
Sure Will do!! It took a long time, I didn’t do this in one week..it took several months…Anything can be done if you really want it..and if you can’t do it, it means you didn’t want it badly enough. I tell you I was having dreams of shoes! It was awful!!! I knew if I didn’t figure this out I’d have an empty hole in my heart.
Truly inspiring, as always! Amazing!
I used to date a mad shoes lover, he showed me the shoes lasts that he acquired from china while on a trip for his company and he described how exciting the process of making shoes was, and i was excited for him too. but seeing documented pictures and the raw process and work are absolutely mind blowing, i can see why he was so addicted. i’m glad you have this post because the typical men can see that women will never have enough shoes.
keep up your awesome posts! it’s really awesome.
aw thats cool. I wonder how many different shoe lasts he saw at that factory? Probably some incredible ones. I will do more process photos. This is really the tip of the iceberg There were so many photos to post of this process my mind went numb when I resized all of them in photoshop. I want to share how the actual wedge was made, which I will soon…Thanks for your comment Kim!
wow, you’re so productive! i can’t believe you’ve been quietly working on these for months as well as all the other stuff.
they are wonderful, and it was great to see the making-of process, because I suppose I never really think of how a shoe is made and the difficulties it must present. your design is surreal, futuristic and weird and it’s amazing.
It was incredibly difficult. The building of the wedge was the easiest part, I thought that was going to be the toughest but it wasn’t. The actual molding process was tough as hell.
You are amazing! I know you’ve probably heard it said time and again, but you are a genius! I’ve been thinking of doing a shoe-making course for a while, and this post has definitely spurred me on. Thanks for being so inspiring
No problem!!! Good luck with your future shoe ventures!
Bloody… hell….
And that is EASIER than making clothes???!?!? That looks ridiculously hard. You are amazing.
I love your luxirare zipper pulls! Where do you get them made? (Or is that top secret??)
It is easier now that I know how to make them. In the beginning it was tough cause I knew nothing. Clothing has larger seams, fabric pieces…and fitting a garment is tough..shoes are easier because you’re working with a small area…unless you’re making thigh highs.
Just incredible!!!
these are absolutely not feminin shoes but congratulations for your efforts. You should make a video to show us how you actually walk with these “millstone rounds”. I imagine you making un effort at every step…like the models at the last Olivier Theyskens show for Nina Ricci
But I wasn’t going for feminine. If you notice I posted the crazy ugly Demonia Goth boots that I said they were inspired from.
Beautiful, I think the fail leather attempt will look good if the ‘stretchmarks’ are exaggerated and covering the whole shoe as a design itself.
Very impressive work!
True! But I didn’t do it purposefully…so it is still an obvious and glaring mistake. It was the most crucial part of this whole process
Dying to know when and where you are wearing these babies.
Probably to Whole foods.
wow… who are you??
you are amazing, keep up the crazy awesome work!
OMG. this has got to be the best post ever! seriously MIND-BLOWING.
on a side note, it reminds me of the shoes zhang ziyi wore in “memoirs of a geisha” when she became the lead actress in a play.
Yes I remember her stage sequence! I loved those shoes and I can’t believe she performed in them.
Inspiring as always!!
marvelous job, can’t wait to see the next shoe you make.
HELLO LUXIRARE,
I AM JUST SPEECHLESS.
THIS ARE MONSTROUSLY GENIUS SHOES.
THIS IS AN AMAZING SHOE DESIGN. I TRULY APPLAUD THAT YOU LEARNED AND KEEP LEARNING ALL THIS SHOE-MAKING PROCESS BY YOURSELF.
I GENUINELY ADMIRE YOU LUXIRARE, NOT BECAUSE YOU HAVE TALENT.
EVERYONE HAS A TALENT BUT PEOPLE RARELY PUSH THEMSELVES TO BE THE BEST THEY CAN BE AT IT. I ADMIRE YOU BECAUSE YOU HAVE WHAT A TRUE DESIGNER (AND ANYONE DOING ANYTHING LACKS) PATIENCE, DETERMINATION AND DEVOTION (LOVE) FOR WHAT THEY TRULY GOOD AT AND LOVE.
TO HAVE FINISHED THIS PROJECT WITHOUT DONE THIS BEFORE AND WITHOUT ANY PAST LEARNING BACKGROUND IS ADMIRABLE.
GOOD LUCK WITH EVERYTHING. IN THE FUTURE WHEN YOU OPEN A STORE I’LL BE A DEVOTED CUSTOMER.
Thank you Rafelina, your comment means a lot and you’re smart for noting that talent has very little to do with completing the task at hand. I agree, everyone is talented and everyone has great ideas, and very so often people put so much emphasis on talent when it has nothing to do with completion. I don’t even understand when people say “oh this person has talent” I mean…everyone I know is talented and special in their own right.
I FORGOT TO TELL YOU THAT I ALSO ADMIRE THAT YOU DO NOT GIVE ANY PERSONAL DETAILS ABOUT YOUR LIFE, OR EVEN LET US SEE YOUR FACE. WE JUST WANT TO SEE AND ADMIRE YOUR TALENT, NOTHING ELSE. THAT IS WHY MARTIN MARGIELA IS MY FAVORITE DESIGNER AND AN AMAZING INNOVATOR. JUST LIKE YOU ARE.
PS: WHO CUSTOMIZE YOUR ZIPPER PULLS? THEY ARE SO WELL DONE AND AMAZING.
I EVEN WOULD WERE THEM AS A NECKLACE PENDANT!
my total admiration of of your…detirmination and non laziness is like officially has the top of my skull exploding off
wow that was not grammatically correct at all…just woke up
girl you are a genius!!! this is just stunning! MY DEAR GOD! wow wow!
I would be very happy if you coul tell me were to get some starting material to create shoes. It’s a lot of year that I design shoes and one of my biggest dream is to saw them realized. I thought many time to do it myself but I’ve no idea on what I need! if you’d like to help me you can wrote me at pasky.84@libero.it
thanks so much!
i die….. u r so amazing.. i keep your blog to my friends!!!
i always wonder what do u do? are u in the fashion field?
wow i’m pretty sure those shoes would boost me to normal height!
your “failed attempt” looks like something out of a miike film. it looks creepy in a not-entirely unpleasant way. i think it might look good in a display case!
You are amazing!!
stunning. simply stunning.
teach me your ways. please?
http://thefitting.blogspot.com/
Another amazing post!
We are not worthy!
Congratulations on a spiffing boot … You should email Terry de Haviland!
I am utterly speechless! I’m pretty sure this is the most amazing think I have ever seen! You deserve much respect in the fashion world for not only your determination and dedication to the process but for your phenomenal attention to detail. The green lining and the Luxirare zipper pulls are simply magical. These shoes should win an award.
You are very inspirational Ms. Luxirare! Keep on being uniquely you!
thanks so much, I will admit one thing. I usually don’t get so excited about posting but with these I really was excited to share..only because I actually want to wear them…and usually when I make my own clothes I have no desire to wear them…I also had to wait 3 months for this post so it makes it that much more worth it to me…I almost quit midway but I was hell bent on finishing NOW my life is meaningless again hahahhaha.
Awesome job on the shoes. You are a genius. WOW!
You continue to amaze! Again you have managed to create something totally out of control, makes me shiver and feel giddy all over! What can I say, I’m inspired!
overwhelmingly amazing.
nuff said!
r they comfortable? i want to try making shoes too. i ‘ve been looking into in for a year now (just didnt try it).
Hi aninjas, yes they are extremely cushy.
Insane and in love with process. Very successful. Hope you have visited here at least once in your life. http://www.museoferragamo.it/
*bow* !
wow this is an extreme DIY!!
How I’d love to try making my own shoes… there is an extraordinary well known shop for the handyman in paris (the BHV) where you can find all kinds of material and also the ones to make shoes (whenever i’m on my way buying chain, nails or other stuff like that, i love passing by this corner and dream about all the shoe making possibilities…)
Anyway, your experience is really an inspiration!!
Oh my goodness. They are mad boogies (booties/wedges)
That´s amazing! Love them
Is it ok for me to publish some of your pictures on my blog?
I´ll give credit of course.
Yes sure go ahead!
Aw…you had me until the Herman Munster wedges were added. They ruin the design! Entirely too tall and hideous looking!
Sorry!! Don’t mean to hurt your eyes!!
yes this is my second comment but i JUST noticed the little luxi-stud in the last photo. very subtle.
i was wondering if there is an “about you” section on this page that I am missing. I’m so intrigued with you and would love to read about your background and interests. You blow me away with this beautiful blog. You make blogging a respectable profession after all the crap that is floating around out there.
I have the same YSL heels too and they’re also my current favorite but I have yet to wear them out (afraid the metal will scratch on the pavement).
You’re drive to accomplish such fun yet daunting projects is amazing- and the attention to details take it to another level! Can’t wait for more…
yes I mean, I am afraid to wear them out too!!!! I hardly do, they are such incredible shoes.
Hahahah, that wedge is SO YOU. I notice from your Demonia fetish etc, that your shoe “personality”, is black and extra tall.
I know what you mean with the black centre seam as “easy construction”!!!
I notice from the details of building design, the more simple and minimalistic a building looks with perfect “effortless” joints in between the materials, the more complicated the detailing. It’s pretty tough hiding seams.
Great shoe, Ji. I would kill for a platform-less men’s version of this, I could easily see it being a wardrobe stable and easy to shrug on any outfit.
you are truly inspiring! Those luxirare zippers are a really creative touch. How did you go about getting those made/ making those?
holy mother
I LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog
OH My Gawd – Phenomenal! Can you walk in these???
YES YES
Is there nothing you can’t do?!?
I gotta disagree on the “easier than making clothes part.” For sewing, all you really need is a sewing machine (or hands), material, thread and scissors. For shoes, you need all that and about 50+ more things, not to mention all the various machines. And getting all that stuff with break the average person’s bank. Shoes are such a long process, and not only that but you have to make 2 of each if your actually going to wear them.
Amazing project…gotta respect anyone that can wear that wedge height!!!
Wow, you so are so amazing!!!! I have always been interested in how shoes where home-made. Please please please please help me and answer these questions 1. Where did you buy all the different heels? 2. What material is the sole of the shoe made out of? Please answer as this will help me in my creation of my own shoes!!
I am speechless. Beautiful. I do have the same questions for you as Cara in the previous post.
woah.
wow amazing.
It had never occurred to me that I could make my own shoes. Definitely researching a little further into the process now.
I love love love this!!! so amazingly cool!
i just asked on my blog if anyone’s tried to make their own shoes. i’ve always had this crazy dream to be a shoe apprentice in italy. i’ve heard about “the wizard” since a long time back. you’re really something
for the wedge part, how did you know whether to slope the back at all and how did you arrive at the slight angle on the front? has it gotta do with the way you take a stride? hope you understand what i’m trying to ask. thanks!
Hi, unfortunately the shoe process is EXTREMELY lengthy and long. If I had posted every single part, I would have about 1000 pictures in this post. I will be doing another shoe design and a video to go with it. In fact I think video is the best way to show this process. Machines and tools will also be shown.
Omg, I love those zips.
I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t survive even 3 steps with those shoes. But they look amazing.
i guess if u cant find it make it! lol. this is awesome. imsure the feeling was amazing when u were done. i can only imagine how much work this took. for someone that appreciates the process of handmade shoes(i always watch the how to’s on youtube.lol) i really appreciate ure vision and work ethic. ure one crazy lady ,but crazy good.
oh and the gel pads are genious. i always wonder why shoe designers dont put those in especially on sky high heels.
I need the gel pads, without them I could not even walk in heels. I have no idea why designers haven’t incorporated them into shoes. Maybe some do.
These are outrageous! I just posted a picture on my tumblr! Wow. double and triple wow.
http://thebeautyfile.tumblr.com/
Thank you so much for linking, always appreciated.
i like them- except I think they look a bit awkward where the shoe and platform attach. they might look less awkward if the food part had more of an arch- but who am i to talk? I don’t make shoes OR clothes! im just addicted to fashion blogs. your determination is admirable as usual! one of my favorite parts about your style and design is that you always realize how important trademarking and trademark style is. I LOVE the green lambskin lining. thats the best part. I look forward to seeing that developed in further shoe styles.
I agree with the arch. Shoes always look better with a high arch, but that is the thing with comfort. The better it looks the less comfortable it is. I just wanted something incredibly comfortable, to the point where I would not feel any discomfort, and this arch was the best for walking. I will experiment more with the arch and heels, the first shoe always comes with a considerable amount of flaws.
Wow, you so are so amazing!!!! I have always been interested in how shoes where home-made. Please please please please help me and answer these questions 1. Where did you buy all the different heels? 2. What material is the sole of the shoe made out of? Please answer as this will help me in my creation of my own shoes!! I really need to find some of heels!!
Holy crap! I don’t even know what to said! This is just amazing!
I am very glad you didn’t give up.
Pilot Precise pens have been a staple of my life for 10 years. Holla!
yes they are great pens!
You are amazing…I would love to see your studio one of these days.
The shoe is fab of course, but I must say that I am so in love with the findings, zipper etc…
Was it hard to track down a truly credible source that knows how to get it right without making them look cheap?
You are amazing – you take things to a whole different level!
http://le-passe-partout.blogspot.com
i remember when you did those frozen mojito tablets that i HAAAAD to try for myself, but this just blows me away! make your own shoes??? who could top that? you are such an incredibly brilliant, mad scientist!! we all better watch out cos you could take over the world if you wanted!
im happy there are people like u in this world. this post just made my day. wonderful!!!
customized zipper pulls, get out. those are the raddest part
you leave me awestruck every time. you are one brilliant woman.
thank you. thank you. thank you.
xxx
t
The next step? Higher and chunkier I say! No, only joking…this is a supreme feat (geddit…)!
WOW this post is seriously amazing. i want to go make my own shoes now!! it must be so gratifying to make your dream shoes.
ive always wanted to make my own clothes but ive no idea where to start. amazing how you find the push to make a SHOE. amazing i say!
Great post!!!, like I always say…. Inspiring!!!!!…….
I really love shoes and youre designe is so Beautifull!!!
now I’ll never see shoes the sameway, (ahahahahha)
thnx for shering!!!!
xoxoxoxo
Bere
PS: Customizing is one of the best parts of doing you own things! (gel pads)
I have been looking for black ankle wedge boots for what seems like forever, and I just can’t find any that I like. I would definitely buy these if they had a more manageable wedge height and a greater heel angle. I can’t believe you only messed up one prototype!
Hi, what is the sole made out of and where did you get the different types of heels? Theses shoes are amazing!!
Wow! those have the hugest heel I have ever seen!!! love em
i like how you made your own zipper pulls too! of course you would leave no detail unattended to
these make everything else Ive ever seen with a wedge seem silly.
This is awesome!
Informative and great photography but it creeps me out the face of the model… like in horror films
What a great inspiration
Thank you for sharing!
Hi! you’re AMAZING. Do you sell this suede ankle boot? I LOVE IT!
WTF!!! I bet you can part the sea, walk on the water and create miracles too! You’re an amazing crazy lady.
You never cease to amaze me.
you must have the patience of a saint! i envy your determination to get everything just right. i love how high these are, i find height with heels is addictive, the taller the better. amazing post, the fact you can walk in these babies is an achievement in itself
spectacular! i wish i could design my own shoes as well because i never find something with every exact detail i want, just variations, just generic, but you are a true artist, obviously! i especially enjoy the green lining and luxirare zipper pull.
This was such a satisfying post to read. I can’t even imagine how good it felt to do!
wow very interesting process but very weird to wear it sorry but its strange!
i prefer your clothes !!
Thanks for all your creativity after all ahah !
i’m impressed! seeing how you’ve made such a perfect design from scratch is amazing! good job! would even buy some from you! x
wow that is absolutely amazing! well done they look awesome!!
OH MY GOD. these are epic. why do you torment us by making so many amazing things and keeping them to yourself!
http://beauteexterne.blogspot.com/
Whoa. *blink blink*
Stupid question: If you’re moulding and nailing the shoe material to the last, how do you get the last out? Or have I missed a step somewhere?
I had a zipper in the back, I just pulled down the zipper and after its dried I was easily able to slip it out.
I love these!! Plz tell me where you got all the different types of heels and what is the sole made out of??
When I was a kid, I remember reading a Ramona Quimby book about how she made her own shoes out of paper towels, tape and staples. Needless to say, these blow poor Ramona’s shoes straight out of the water. It’s a fascinating process to see!
you blow my mind.
these are phenomenal!
http://legiterally.blogspot.com
Wow, if this isn’t inspiring I don’t know what is! Excellent work. Can’t wait to see more!
Those killer wedges, loathing the sky for being high and determined to compete with it. It must require some skills to wear them, but I imagine you’re trained. They have a beautiful cap and the shank curves with sophistication. The phenomenal height of it, I love exceptionally. It’s common to see shoes similar to the pair that inspired you, but not everyone / every company is welling to risk with shoes that tripped Naomi Campbell. It’s sweet to set your own limit. I’d love a pair of yours even if it kills me
I mean the rolling thing with spikes.
Thats the pattern tracer, it makes marks through the paper so when you’re tracing a pattern onto another piece of paper it stays accurate.
Looks so comfortable. Love the zipper pull.
If you don’t mind answering, where do you live?
I like the screwed up shoe actually. I like the textural/visual effect of the stretching. It really emphasizes the act of making the shoe (and my favorite part of making shoes is stretching over the last so maybe I am biased) and puts production back into the hands of the maker, which is lost in modern production techniques. Great work, everyone in my wood shop thinks I am crazy for making shoes but its so much fun!
thanks for posting this! you rock!!! these shoes are killer!!!
Oh my. You are a true genius! I wish I could wear things like this to school. But unfortunately, suburban high schools don’t mix well with fashion such as this. Oh and just wondering, do you ever use interns?
Jesus H. Christ, I think I just lost it. Seriously, if you ever go into making stuff for other people…I will probably hit you up. Keep doing this because you inspire a lot of us into pushing ourselves!
Please Please Please tell me where you got those amazing different heels and what u made the sole out of!!
Congrats! How exciting… this post is taking me back to shoe school! Isn’t it so fun to learn how shoes are made!!??
Now I’m a jaded designer who makes sketches and hands them off to pattern makers, a team of cutters and finishers, and people that specialize in just the lasting process!
I think it would be fun to go back and see if I can still create a shoe from scratch like I used to!
Great blog! You constantly amaze me.
I CAN SEE A VOID SOMEWHERE BELOW THE HEEL/
OR WAS I HALLUCINATING–NINA RICCI FTW!
MAN I NEED SLEEP. FABULOUS AS ALWAYS LUXI!
You know, I knew shoes were going to show up on your site soon! Very nice, very hard, but very very nice for your final product. Shoe’s are too much of a tedious process . . . almost makes me think some of those Kirkwoods are worth the prix. But, I wanted to thank you for showing it in a nearly step by step process. I want to know, also, if in the end the zipper turned out to be a blister-inducer . . . knowing your teensie delicate pieds, probably not. I am going to admit, I am super jealous of Susie Bubble who has your jacket . . . I cannot wait for you to have your own free-standing store. Mainly because as a fellow packaging-fiend, I am eagerly anticipating how you will do your packaging. You’ve been to Takashimaya, right? Love their triangular shopping bags . . . something like that is what I envision your future flagship having. That and impeccably refined and nice client-services.
All the best, yet again,
GG
adore it! would love to wear a shoe and walk all around with it just to see how it feels like
OMG Luxirare, this is badass!!! Have a nice weekend love, xo
These are so amazing. I have always wanted to learn how to make my own shoes. Where did you buy the shoe lasts?
this is so so so .. beyond words. im esl i dont got no massive vocab bank in my head. i cant describe how………….i feel about all your projects. but they’re all good feelings, crazy good feelings.
ALSO! i prefer nina riccis too
Oh my! EXCELLENT boots!! I hope you don’t mind, but where did you get your pattern tracer? The tracers I have don’t actually make holes in my fabric. I prefer that. Thanks.
WOW WOW WOW WOW. You are amazing. Those zipper pulls are the shit!!
Amazing! Do you have any recommendations on books about the process of making shoes?
wow…HUGE…but I love seeing the process!!!
Brilliant….and Speachless
nice post. thanks.
Hello Luxirare !! I’ve been reading your blog for a few months now…. (and when I discovered it I read every single entry!!) I haven’t commented yet, mainly because I didn’t feel I had something interesting to add…. except the ‘i love it’ type of comment.
But after I read this I came up with an idea… I have a pair of lace-up ankle boots that I never wear because they have a stiletto heel and no platform, and now I have gotten used to wearing platforms and can’t wear heels without them. Anyways I wanted to tear up the heel & sole apart and glue some wedges like you did, so it will be less difficult than what you made because I don’t have the molding part. But I don’t know where you found the foam/crepe (and I don’t think you wrote it anywhere, if you did, sorry to ask again).
bye, love.
very well done for a first try! they are brilliantly mad
i am a shoemaker if you ever need help lucy.smith@virgin.net
uhmayzing, I am at university in London studying footwear design and technology, and for you to make these amazing boots without the many lessons that I have is truly impressive, and without all the help and knowledge of my tutors, some who have been making shoes for 40 years plus….
sweet job
You inspire me.
I’ve never seen the process of making shoes. This is interesting… and I loved looking thru the photos.
oh my goodness i am in awe! i just started reading your blog and to see the things you do is inspirational…these boots are incredible i hope you make more shoes because not only was it awesome to see the process, but they are so cool haha
I am a footwear designer and I know the process of designing, drafting, and building a shoe I would never think to actually attempt to do it myself without the use of factories. I am in awe of your work! Incredible! And you design is so fashion forward I absolutely love it!! BRAVA
Dude these are so incredible! The logo on the zippers … you’re a total genius. Do you sell your designs? I’d SO buy something.
halcoholic.com
I mentioned upstream that you should consider the 3-D print process for footwear; it looks like someone else had similar thoughts on the best use of this new technology:
http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/the_melonia_shoe_a_worlds_first_wearable_3d_printed_footwear_15995.asp
As an underage 12-year-old living with a very close-minded family who don’t approve much of my desire to go into the fashion industry, your blog is definitely a day-to-day inspiration that keeps me sane! You are probably one of the most, if not THE most, well-dressed people I’ve ever seen, and I absolutely LOVE your platforms! The basic design makes them versatile, but still gives them voice.
I was wondering if you could do a post on beginner’s clothes-making? Not too many details, just the resources and budget you need, and any tips…
I can see why it took you so long to acquire all of the supplies !! I have been searching the internet for a few weeks now and, in a desperate plea, decided to resort back to the blog that gave me the inspiration to attempt my own shoe for help. I was hoping you could tip me off to more places I might be able to get my hands on some shoe lasts ?
wow I’m only seventeen and I had no idea that the process of shoe making would be so fascinating!
I don’t really see much of this, because I’m used to seeing clothing designers,
but this is just something else! It’s inspiring! You are amazing!
brilliant, per usual. always amazed by your stuff.
I jus found your site and I must say I am highly impressed and entertained. I love to make my own stuff but I really would never thought about making shoes. In any case those look amazing!
still amazed at how u made this
OMG again I am amazed at your talent and dedication, and love your work, definitely would buy these if you had a store! I would pay a lot
Amazing effort! It’s a true craft and I salute your dedication! This video is about one of the last bespoke shoe maker in the UK – absolutely inspiring.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/video/2010/mar/09/john-lobb-shoes-london
A friend sent me this entry, which I’m admiring a great deal. She thought you might have a good idea where to get the soles used in creepers?
are these platforms supposed to crumple like that on the heels…? hmmm….
I adore these shoes. You’re so talented, it’s amazing.
This is absolutely mind blowing! I didn’t even think making shoes was a possibility but you have inspired me to look into shoe-making. Thank you for serving as an inspiration to all of us in the blogging community.
You are amazing. I’m in awe! I’m currently studying accesories design and my shoes don’t look half as good as yours! For a first shoe, this is amazing! I have to ask though, how did you mold the 1″ crepe so well? I’m trying to make a wedge out of it and I’m having so much trouble making molding it to the last. Any tips?
Thank you for being such an inspiration!
Hi Luxirare
I must say you are certainly a talented in a multi-facted kind of way, I am quite envious.
I wanted to ask you if you know of a good resource for info and/or a basic supply and materials list to begin learning shoe making on my own.
Thanks
hi!! this is the first time I enter to your blog…and I was just exploring your previous posts…and this caught my attention specially because I’m studying Fashion and Footwear Design… and I can’t understand how did u learn to make shoes in just three months!! while I’m trying to learn how to make a Derby in a whole semester… I really loved this entry it’s absolutely inspiring…
where did u get the thick foam crepe from? ive been looking for it everywhere,
i was thinking about making knee high ones but if i cant find the crepe then i was thinking about useing wood… as uncomfortable as that sounds im quite broke and cant afford much
There is nothing that annoys me more than a bad blog comment. People love to leave such bad comments, especially here with the giveaways and stuff. I hate reading comments like “Good one!” or “Thanks!” or especially “Hope I Win!.” If you comment on a blog, it needs to be intelligent. Speak proper English (IM language annoys me most of all) and contribute something useful. Great blog by the way, keep those negative comments away and keep doing what you are doing!
holy jesus lady. ok you win. amazing.
I am in awe of you! Those shoes are so cool, you are talented!!
Totally amazing shoes, awesome design, stunning style.
thanks for the great post
Omgosh! Those are incredibly well-crafted! Can you trim some off the wedge? But anyway,Im happy for you`re a genius.
Blogged about it!
i want them!
Hey Luxirare!
You have really inspired me so much! I would like to learn how to make my own shoes, and also, how and where did you acquire all those shoes? Where did you learn the process? Do you have some sort of book to recommend?
Thanks
Now those are some insane killer wedges!
Interesting to see how you went about making them! Thanks for another great post.
Such a fan!
How did you attach the insole to the wedge, pray tell?
Thank you so much!
To whomever this may concern.
Would it be possible for me to buy a few pairs for my graduation show in june?if so could you tell me the price?im looking for really high shoes online that are affordable but i cant seem to find any!im a fashion design student in dubai and im graduating in june, my inspiration is a japanese love story and i thought wedges would be the best though maybe not boot/wedges, please let me know.
xxxmail me.Dmitri
I wanted to say thanks to you for this great read!!
HELLLO its me again please mail dmitri_gunasena11@yahoo.com so we can keep in touch im in fashion designing.
where did you get the foam crepe from i need a fair amount to repair my 12 yearold swear boots they used to be 6 inch platforms there only about 3 inches now i’m getting shorter every year lol
these are the WORST SHOES I HAVE EVER SEEN!!!!!!!!!!!!
they are SOOOOOOOOO UGLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
there massive, chunky and way too high!!!!!!!!
eeeeeeeeeeeeewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
These are absolutely amazing. I cannot believe you make your own shoes. I never even thought people really did that! I’m not sure if I’m allowed to ask this, but where are the shoes you got the inspiration from? There’s no way I can make my own, haha.
Wow! You did absolutely amazing for your first pair of shoes, especially without any help. I am a shoemaker myself, I learned from my mother who is a bookmaker, and I thought I could give you a little advice for next time. The most important things you’ll learn about shoemaking, you cannot learn from a book. The skills, tricks, and basic knowledge of tools and techniques really must be learned from an actually person who has spent their life making shoes. I know of lots of classes you can take if you’re interested. If you ever need help or advice or anything, please contact me.
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iv been trying to track down those boots that you designed these ones off, what brand are they???
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