Interview: Tom, Senior footwear designer

Link to Toms portfolio

What is your role within the fashion industry?

- I'm a senior ftw designer at Nike inc.

What formal education do you have in your subject area?

- I have a MDes in Transportation Design from Cov uni so nothing to do with ftw.

What do you feel was the catalyst in taking this career path?

- I was a runner up in a RSA sponsored design competition for Reebok whilst I was at Uni, this ignited the fire...I then went on to freelance for Speedo whilst I was still at uni doing a range of pool shoes...All of this kind of pushed me in the right direction.

Where do you find your inspiration?

- Everywhere, kinda corney I know but truthfully, I spend an hour each morning perusing the web, interior design sites, car design sites, fashion blogs etc etc, for me anything can be a source of inspiration. Nature is a big influence to me right now and the study of Biometrics.

What do you think are the key attributes to a strong portfolio?

- The story and sketching. A folio must show the 'story' from ideation to conception, idea progression and selection, creating the argument as to why you chose a certain direction over another. Sketching is still uber important, the ability to get your ideas onto paper as clearly and concisely as possible, you dont have to be an amazing "drawer" as long as the idea is represented clearly enough.

Is there any advice you would give to someone wanting to get into the design industry?

- PATIENCE. Good things come to those who wait. And be humble and prepared to work for things. You are not automatically entitled to anything.



Thanks so much Tom for your input.