STAIRFORM
Category: Footwear
Competitions: Vietnam
I drew inspiration for my leather shoe design from the exposed outdoor staircases commonly found in Brutalist architecture — bold, sculptural structures often referred to as “zigzag” or “folded plate” staircases. These elements are more than just emergency exits or pathways; they are powerful visual statements that define the identity of the buildings they belong to. With their raw concrete surfaces, sharp right angles, and unapologetic visibility, they embody the Brutalist ideals of material honesty and structural clarity. What captivates me is the repetition of geometry, the precision of angular forms, and the sense of elevation — both physical and metaphorical — that these staircases evoke. Translating these architectural qualities into fashion, I envisioned a chunky sole reminiscent of stair steps, layered leather panels that mimic folded structures, and zigzag trims that echo the rhythmic contours of the staircase. Leather can be embossed or heat-pressed to imitate the texture of raw concrete, while the color palette explores shades of grey, black, and off-white. By using the Brutalist staircase as a visual metaphor, this design not only pays homage to architectural integrity but also tells a personal narrative of resilience, transformation, and self-construction — like a staircase, lifting oneself step by step.
