Recently spotlighted shoe designer Terhi Pölkki is the first designer in the DreamCatcher's Series. I'm so delighted that she's a part of this series as I admire her work and contributions as a shoe designer. So without further ado, I offer you a SheBreathes DreamCatcher, Terhi Pölkki
Can you please tell us a little about your background?
Originally from Finland, I graduated from Cordwainers at London College of Fashion in January 2008. I based my MA collection on my Heritage from the Northern country of Finland. The collection is made of ecological reindeer leather.
I wanted to become a fashion designer but later on shoes completely took my heart. I place shoe design somewhere between fashion and product design. Shoes need to be both aesthetic and the same time practical and well-made, beautiful objects to fall in love with.
How was your Cordwainers experience?
I really enjoyed studying in Cordwainers. I love the atmosphere and the old building with the history of shoe makers. The college is an excellent place to learn making shoes.
What advice would you give someone wanting to enter the world of footwear/shoe design?
Shoe design is not only about fashion. Designing the shoes that catch the eye is not difficult but designing shoes that fit perfectly, it is completely another thing. I want shoes to be statement not only beautiful objects.
I find my inspiration from photography. I am visiting photography exhibitions weekly, portraitures fascinates me. I have large collection of old family photographs from the beginning of the 1900's.
Who are your favourite designers ?
My favorite fashion designers are Jil Sander, Vivienne Westwood and Rodarte. Shoe designers Pierre Hardy, Christian Louboutin and Camilla Skovgaard.
I want to design shoes that make statement about the ecological values and concentrate to develop the materials such as reindeer leather to women's shoes.
What's your definition of "DreamCatcher"?
Please visit Terhi's website to see stockist and absorb more of her beautiful shoes.
All fotos courtesy of Terhi Pölkki for usage on SheBreathes.com. Photographer Daniel Markusson. Please don't reproduce images or any part of this interview without permission. {c} 2008.
