Fashion Geek Alert: Startup Allows Users to Design Own Shoes

In a previous post, The Fashion Grid covered the world's first 3-D printer that actually creates shoes. As innovative as this piece of machinery is, we know the technology has a long way to go before it becomes a staple part of any household. In the meantime, TFG encourages its readers to check out Shoes of Prey. An Australian-based start-up founded in 2009, Shoes of Prey allows its users to become virtual Geppettos, letting them design and customize a pair of shoes which they can then purchase at price points ranging from 100-300 dollars.

The designing process is simple- users pick from 16 styles and then choose the materials and colors they want for each part of the shoe. The materials include cotton, various quality leathers, silk, hair, snakeskin, fishskin, glitter and sequins. The site uses a 3D Web-based platform that allows its users to view what different fabrics and colors would appear as on their designated shoe. Styles are available in flats, sandals, heels, and wedges, and can be designed via computer, tablet, or smartphones. Once the design is complete, you can purchase the shoe and have it shipped to your door. 

With it's new round of funding, including financial backing from TechCrunch founder Mike Arrington, there's no doubt Shoes of Prey will be widely successful. The personalization and innovation of its online service allow users to really engage with the product and feel invested in its creation. We here at TFG know such advacements in the fashion tech scene will only inspire more fashion geeks to continue to change the industry. Who knows? Maybe one day high-end designers like Christian Louboutin will provide a similar online service. Now that would be one fashion geek fairy tale. Make sure to check out the video above on how Shoes of Prey makes the shoes!