THE THREADS THAT BIND
Category: Footwear
Competitions: Africa
"The Threads That Bind” is a handcrafted sandal designed to celebrate the enduring connections between people, culture and the environment. Rooted in the ethos of resourcefulness and identity, the sandal is made using genuine cow leather, durable recycled polyester yarn and recycled rubber soles. Each material speaks to the past, present and future of African craftsmanship. The idea began with childhood memories of crochet in my grandmother’s hands, the way each stitch carried love and tradition. I combined that with the resilience of leather and the reality of waste in our environment, aiming to create a sandal that feels rooted, but forward-thinking. I imagined a product that walks gently on the Earth and strongly with purpose. These threads became more than yarn; they were a way of life. This design brings that same cultural essence into footwear, where every stitch becomes a symbol of resilience and every sandal carries a deeper message; that our traditions evolve but never unravel. Leather, with its natural resilience and timeless aesthetic, serves as the foundational material; chosen for its durability, tactile richness and ability to age gracefully with the wearer. The sandal’s footbed and frame are made from genuine cow leather, delivering structure, comfort and a touch of elegance. The rubber sole speaks to urban adaptability and a second life for materials that would otherwise be waste since they are made from recycled tires. The crochet straps are where the soul of the design lies made from durable yarn that can be removed, rewoven or repurposed, embracing circular fashion and versatility. The straps are also adaptable to different sole styles; including flats, wedges and block soles and can also be made in a wide variety of colors allowing each pair to reflect the wearer's personal style and preferences. This also allows wearers to refresh their sandals without discarding the entire pair, ensuring the product grows and evolves with them in both style and lifespan. “The Threads That Bind” is more than a sandal. It is a movement woven by hand honoring the past, worn in the present and designed for a future that walks lightly and thoughtfully.
