“Good shoes must have good proportions,” said United Nude’s Founder and Creative Director Rem D Koolhaas. As he recently flew to Manila for a quick master class on shoe design, he shared how he used architectural concepts as a predictive model for his avant-garde product design.
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In the masterclass, Rem discussed the thought process involved in developing a design for footwear. Since designing is always making an idea possible, he explained that there’s no need to be bound by the rules. “[The design of the shoe] is more for people who adhere to their own style. The outcome also has to be good enough to last long,” he said.
Perhaps the reason behind United Nude’s success in nurturing a global cachet is because they create one-of-a-kind pieces consistently. No wonder A-list stars like Lady Gaga and Nicki Minaj has been commissioning shoes from the label. It easily commands the attention of individuals who value design and style.
Each shoe is a reinterpretation of an architectural object or a reflection of the possibilities offered by movement, colors, and materials. Every design has its own vibe and personality. Some designs may appear wild and flamboyant but are really among the most comfortable or wearable pairs around.
That’s why according to Rem, whenever you buy United Nude shoes, it’s like buying a piece of art where there is a story, and the shoe wearers—not only the designer—serve as storytellers of the brand. But come to think of it, how do we really know if it’s the right shoes for us? Here are three perfect tips you need to consider when buying shoes according to United Nude’s Creative Director Rem Koolhaas.
Comfort Is A Priority
If there should only be one important aspect of every shoe, it is must be comfort. A good shoe must be able to give you comfort as you accomplish your daily errands. “I think people should make sure the shoes are comfortable, otherwise you’re not gonna wear them enough,” Rem explained.
Get What You Really Want
For Rem Koolhaas, if you really love a certain shoe, then by all means, get it. Follow your heart. After all, if you don’t really like the shoe, you won’t wear it often—eventually wasting your own money. Always remember, shoes are like an investment.
Don’t Judge A Shoe Based On Its Appearance
“What I would really suggest, is to try the shoes on. Because you can’t judge a shoe if it’s good or not if you’re not gonna try them on,” Rem reasoned. Based on his own experience, there were times when they had customers come to their stores and only look at the shoes. So he would ask them if they’ll allow him to make suggestions for them. The next thing you know, “they would often end up buying a shoe that they wouldn’t have picked themselves,” he shared.
United Nude’s flagship store in the Philippines is located at the Newport Mall, Resort’s World Manila.
