TaraSpotlight

How long have you been a shoe designer?

Six years.

How did you get your start?

My first job in shoes was as a design assistant with Taryn Rose. It was a great place. The owner used to be podiatrist. She started her company after seeing so many female patients come to her with foot problems because of their shoes. Her footwear had a heavy emphasis on technology and arch support. I learned a lot about the construction of shoes from that job.

Did you always plan to be a shoe designer?

No, I kind of fell into it. My aim was to design clothes. I've always liked fashion. I had a degree in fashion design. When I worked at Caryn Rose, I learned how detailed the shoe design industry was. I found it more challenging. There are so many different components to shoes. I like that about footwear.

Tell us about the company you work for, Chinese Laundry.

Chinese Laundry is a family owned company. They make dress shoes for the young Fashionista and the everyday woman. Our products are at the mid price level. Shoes and boots range from $40 - $150. It’s good fashion at an affordable price.

Where do you get your inspiration for your designs?

I get inspirations from different things. Clothes, paintings, other shoes… I can see an usual buckle or strap and will incorporate that idea into my designs.

What are the challenging aspects of your job?

Trying to fight for your original ideas. Persuading your company to take a chance on an idea that you have or something that you believe in. Also, trying to convince your bosses that your idea will work. At this level, you mainly have to do designs off someone else’s vision. The ultimate goal is to be able to produce your own style and vision. Eventually I would like to have my own label and business.

Does your job entail travel?

Yes, I go to NY and Vegas for trade shows. I’ve also been to London. China and India are where our main factories are located, so I go to those places often. The design team has to go there to oversee the staff to make sure the shoes are made to our specifications. We work pretty long days, about 12 hours a day, doing sketches, detailing shoes, making changes, etc.

How do you keep up with the trends?

We always have to be on the lookout. We work months ahead. We’re already working on fashions for fall of next year. Right now, I'm sketching fashions for next season. We have to design far in advance. Shoe design is not like clothing. It takes a long time to make shoes.

How long is the process?

The first prototype takes about 2-3 weeks. Then you have to make corrections… get the construction right... it can take a month and a half just to show a shoe as a sample. It’s a very long process. You’re working on material, color, shape, fit… From sketch to store it can take 3-4 months. Most of the time it’s much longer.

What’s the one thing that women should look for when purchasing shoes?

Comfort is my big thing. I don’t think feet should have to suffer to look cute. Always try on shoes in the afternoon or evening. Your feet are swollen by then. Make sure that nothing pinches or rubs. If the shoes are comfortable when your feet are swollen then they will always be comfortable.

Any new fall trends or fashions to watch out for?

Definitely fringe boots, they are really big. Flat boots are still in, too. Herringbone print on shoes is very popular, as well. Any kind of man-tailored material, meaning it looks like a man’s suit material or pattern, is in. Like tweeds, plaid, oxford...they are very popular now in women’s shoes...it’s so hot! Short western boots are in, too.

Does being a shoe designer automatically make you a shoe diva?

Let’s just say, I have big closet and I can’t see the floor because of all my shoes. They are piled up like a big mountain. I have too many shoes. I’m not even sure how many.

What’s your favorite thing to do when you're not working?

Go dancing in my heels!

To check out Chinese Laundry footwear and

Tara's designs*, visit

www.chineselaundry.com.

(*Here are a few of the shoe titles Tara has done for the Laundry division: Perky, Jemmy, Prudence, Sinead, Ransom)

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