Profile: Farida Eid – Real Leather Design Competitions

Farida Eid

Arsutoria School Milano

I’m Farida Eid, an award-winning footwear designer and patternmaker committed to merging thoughtful design with high-quality craftsmanship. I studied Design at the American University in Cairo before advancing my technical training at ARSUTORIA School in Milan, the global leader in footwear education. My expertise lies in performance and fashion footwear, with a strong focus on running, walking, and lifestyle shoes. Over the past few years, I’ve led the design and development of the first Egyptian sports shoe made entirely in Egypt, and my creations were proudly worn during the Paris 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony. Currently, I serve as Head Designer at the largest footwear factory in Africa and the Middle East, while consulting on international projects across men’s, women’s, and children’s shoes, including bespoke and bridal footwear. Beyond my professional path, I’m a wife of a very supportive man and a mother to a wonderful little boy, which is also one of the most important jobs I hold, raising him to become a kind and grounded gentleman. I’m currently establishing my own workshop THE SOLESTUDIO with an amazing partner, a space where I can share, teach, and grow alongside others. It’s a dream rooted in my belief that craftsmanship is meant to be preserved, shared, and evolved. I want to contribute to reviving the art of shoemaking, not just by creating, but by educating and inspiring others, because true growth comes when we learn from and uplift one another.

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ZAHW

Category: Footwear

Competitions: Africa

DISCLAIMER: KINDLY DISREGARD ANY PU MATERIALS OR SNAKE LEATHER IT’s only a printed pattern on the cow hide leather. ALL DESIGNS ARE INTENDING TO USE COW HIDE LEATHER. ZAHW is my passion project,a footwear brand born from a deep desire to merge identity, culture, and contemporary design into something truly wearable and meaningful. The name "ZAHW" comes from the Arabic word for “essence” or “spark,” and that’s exactly what this brand represents: the essence of personal expression, heritage, and craft, ignited into every step. Through ZAHW, I aim to create limited-edition, statement footwear that celebrates bold individuality while honoring traditional craftsmanship. Every design begins with a story, often rooted in regional symbolism, architectural lines, or historical references. I like to explore elements of Arab and African visual culture and reinterpret them in modern silhouettes, materials, and finishes. The result is footwear that feels both grounded and forward-thinking. What makes ZAHW unique is its dedication to quality, storytelling, and local empowerment. All pairs are designed with meticulous attention to detail and produced in small batches using ethical practices. I work closely with local artisans and manufacturers to ensure that each shoe is not only beautiful but also well-constructed and responsible. ZAHW is not just about fashion, it’s about identity, pride, and movement. It’s for people who want to wear something that means something, who walk with intention and don’t shy away from standing out. As a designer and patternmaker, I bring my technical expertise and creative vision together in every pair. With ZAHW, I hope to spark conversations, support local industry, and create shoes that carry stories with every step. DISCLAIMER: KINDLY DISREGARD ANY PU MATERIALS OR SNAKE LEATHER IT’s only a printed pattern on the cow hide leather. ALL DESIGNS ARE INTENDING TO USE COW HIDE LEATHER.