THEi and HKDI students showcase their design flair and bag accolades in the 18th Footwear Design Competition Hong Kong

Students of the Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi) and the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), both member institutions of the Vocational Training Council (VTC), bagged a variety of prizes in the 18th Footwear Design Competition Hong Kong. They received Gold and Silver awards in the Men’s Shoes category, a Silver award in the Children’s Shoes category and a Bronze award in the Ladies’ Shoes - Total Look Trendy Styling category – all highlighting the design prowess of these two institutions which is well recognised within the industry.

Having won a Gold award in the Children’s Shoes category last year, graduate of HKDI’s Higher Diploma in Fashion Design LEE Kam-hi clinched both a Gold award in the Men’s Shoes category and a Silver in the Children’s Shoes category this time. Her winning entry in the Men’s Shoes category was called “Mr Bamboo”, being inspired by that plant. The footwear uses green leather and a hollow design mirroring the weaving pattern commonly found in bamboo fences, which is further accessorised by a metal zipper and buckle. Kam-hi explains, “Bamboo is hollow inside with a straight exterior, symbolising an upright and humble gentleman, which is indeed appropriate for designing men’s shoes.”

Kam-hi’s Silver award in the Children’s Shoes category was earned by a design called “Fly Me To The Dream”, inspired by the Pegacorn in Greek mythology which symbolises prosperity and hope. The white leather ankle boot is complemented by a three-dimensional Pegacorn and wings, along with fringes and ribbons to add a touch of fairy tales – a design aimed at encouraging Hong Kong children to pursue their dreams.

Silver awardee in the Men’s Shoes category, Year Two student of THEi’s Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Product Design LI Qixue, named her work “Business Monk Shoes”. She personified her design by applying men’s shirt sleeves, a necktie and wristwatch to the shoes. Thus, putting on the shoes is like wearing a suit. What a creative mind!

Studying the same programme, THEi student Candy NG won a Bronze award in the Ladies’ Shoes - Total Look Trendy Styling category. Drawing inspiration from the unknowable cosmos, Candy selected planets of the solar system as her major design theme. The body of her shoe is made of shiny black leather to portray the sense of mystery within the boundless universe. Overall the shoes are easy to match. Candy handpicked a deep blue off-the-shoulder dress to match the shoes, creating an elegant style.

Organised by the Federation of Hong Kong Footwear Limited and supported by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the Footwear Design Competition Hong Kong is aimed at enhancing quality of the Hong Kong footwear industry, scouting for designers with high potential, promoting Hong Kong footwear products among international buyers and exploring overseas markets. The Competition is divided into six categories, namely Men's Shoes, Ladies' Boots, Ladies' Shoes - Total Look Trendy Styling, Children's Shoes, DIY - 3D Modelling Concept Design and Handbags. This year over 800 entries were received. Winners were selected by a professional judging panel based on creativity, fashion aesthetics and producibility. Gold, Silver, Bronze and Special awards were conferred for each category.

The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi) is a member of VTC Group. It offers vocationally-oriented degree programmes across three faculties: Design and Environment, Management and Hospitality, and Science and Technology. The programmes are offered in areas where the VTC has strengths, and which are also growth industries not only in Hong Kong but also across the region. They feature the synthesis of knowledge acquisition and practical applications that enable students to grow into professionally-competent graduates. With its strong links with industry partners, THEi provides students with a vital platform for enhanced development. Website: www.thei.edu.hk

The Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI) is a member of VTC Group. HKDI was established in 2007 with the mission to be a leading provider of design education and lifelong learning, including foundation design, communication design and digital media, fashion and image design and architectural, interior and product design. With a view to providing professional designers for the creative industries, it promotes the “think and do” approach and encourages interdisciplinary thinking in its broad range of design programmes. HKDI maintains a strong network with industry and provides its students with essential practical experience enriched with cultural sensitivities and sustainability. Overseas exchanges are actively arranged for students to broaden their international perspective. Website: www.hkdi.edu.hk

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