Two University of Northampton students in the running to be named Drapers Student Footwear Designer of the Year

Two students from the University of Northampton are preparing to go up against stiff competition to be named Drapers’ Student Footwear Designer of the Year.

Loren Buckingham and Rebecca Rodgers are both in the final year of the BA (Hons) Footwear and Accessories course and are two of five UK students who have been shortlisted for the final.

Both were required to submit a portfolio of their work showcasing three different footwear designs and will be judged by the likes of John Saunders, Chief Executive of the British Footwear Association and Colin Temple, Managing Director of Schuh.

For her footwear designs, Loren took inspiration from Kipling’s original Jungle Book and used bright colours and bold shapes to give the impression of a child with the jungle spirit.

She said: “It feels great to be shortlisted for such an amazing and high profile award and I feel very proud of what I have achieved so far and to be one of the five finalists.”

Rebecca weaved the solar system and colours of the gallery into her collection and used geometry from the star patterns to give a sophisticated look to her footwear.

She said: “Being shortlisted for the Drapers’ Student Footwear of the Year competition has given me the confidence that I need and made me realise that I do have a lot of potential. I am looking forward to the final result. Good luck to everyone.”

Chris Hill, Programme Leader for Footwear and Accessories at the University of Northampton, said: “Every new generation of footwear designers needs support and encouragement – especially in a tough economic environment that is becoming more and more competitive. Links with industry, internships and ‘live’ project briefs all help to prepare students for the world of work.

Events such as the Drapers Student Footwear Designer of the Year competition really help raise the professional standard of graduate work. At the University of Northampton, we encourage students to compete at national and international level and are delighted that Rebecca and Loren have been shortlisted for this prestigious award.”

The Drapers’ Footwear Awards will be held on Wednesday 17 May at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.