Project: 3D Printed High Heels (2022)

Brief: To design and showcase the use of 3D printing within the form of a high heel for high fashion - showcasing the benefits and capabilities that 3D printing has to offer compared to other manufacturing methods.

The design focuses on incorporating organic forms with a sculptural flow. One of the key elements of the brief was to showcase the properties of 3D printing and the possibilities it creates when compared to other manufacturing methods. Dazed and Confused was the conceptual 'client' that the product was designed for. Looking into their styling and format, I want to encapulate it as best as possible.

The heel was sculpted in blender, with a mix of hard surface modelling for the sweeping curve of the sole, and a focus of fine details in the skull.

Lots of sketches were done to showcase different styles. I wanted to capture a unique form with shapes and geometry that stood out - but it would need to be orchestrated in a way that doesn't look like a chaotic mess.

Some of the initial 3D models to better illustrate my ideas in proper depth. These weren't developed further due to their simplicity and overall lackluster apperance in my opinion, but gave an idea for how I should tackle the modelling and proportions.

These mock models were done to showcase a more abstract approach to the design, of which you can see the design that was most favoured.

The inspiration that lead up to the final design was a mix of sculptural elements that flowed well with some more organic ones. I liked the idea of having leaves growing out of the skull to showcase that life comes from death, and that a little colour can make a big differents to the more earthy tones.

Sanding was quite a time consuming part to ensure the layer lines weren't visible, but in combination with the emulsion paint it created a solid basecoat. Acrylic was used for the entirety of the skull, with different colours used to add variation and wear. The sole was spray painted black for an even finish, with the two parts being glued together at the end. (Which most definitely wasn't a tedious and annoying process since it absolutely fit without me needing to sand areas of intersection... whoops)