When did you first realize you wanted to design and what was it about women’s shoes, in particular, that inspired you?
I must have been about 14 or 15. I started off designing RTW but I was always sketching shoes everywhere. It wasn’t until Gianni Versace hired me that I officially began my career as a shoe designer.
How did you get your start in the industry?
I started freelancing in NYC for sportswear companies and I was modeling at the same time. I knew that I wanted to live and work in Europe so I did just that. My first real job was at Versace where I learned everything you can imagine. It was the best education one could ever ask for!
Interview. Brian Atwood for Elle UK