Elisa van Joolen is a Dutch designer who has found a new purpose for unwanted shoes. Van Joolen took old sample shoes from companies such as Nike and Converse and turned them inside out, literally, to create new shoes. The process involves cutting off the outer sole of the shoe and then turning it inside out. A sandal bottom is then affixed to the shoe, and the original outer sole is turned into a pair of sandals.
The result is a set of shoes that, as the designer says, "emphasize the handwork the handwork that is part of these shoes as well, while obscuring or at least de-emphasizing their mass-produced element." Although the idea sounds atypical, to say the least, Elisa van Joolen's shoes actually don't look so far off from what the fashion industry puts out (here's looking at you, Jeremy Scott.)
Inside-Out Street Shoes
Elisa Van Joolen's Inverted Kicks Show an Unseen Side of Shoes
Trend Themes
1. Upcycled Fashion - The trend of upcycling unwanted materials, like old shoes, to create new and unique fashion pieces that emphasize sustainability and handwork.
2. Deconstructed Design - The trend of deconstructing traditional designs and flipping them inside out to create innovative and unexpected fashion pieces that challenge conventions.
3. Mass Customization - The trend of using existing products or materials as a starting point to create personalized and customized fashion items that cater to individual preferences and styles.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Design - Fashion designers can explore the concept of upcycling and deconstruction to create unique and sustainable fashion collections that resonate with consumers who value eco-friendly and individualistic designs.
2. Sustainable Footwear - Footwear brands can incorporate the concept of upcycling and deconstruction into their production processes to create sustainable and visually striking shoe designs that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
3. Customization Services - Companies that offer customization services can incorporate the idea of using existing products as a base to provide customers with personalized fashion items that reflect their unique style and preferences.