Students will create a collection of shoes with specific themes, such as specific age groups or markets, selecting colors, textiles, or designs to apply. Then, they choose a topic, create shoe design plans, and research various types of shoe designs, modern techniques, and special functions.
The course also teaches the structure of the human foot, draw several types of design, and prepares for more advanced design. Students will perform research on the variation of colors and materials, as well as market trends, and learn to express their free ideas in the actual design.
The ultimate goal of the course is that each student will acquire enough skills to start working as a professional.
Students enrolled in the "One-Year Course" will also acquire general inter-discipline knowledge of "Italian Basic Art" (Art History, Painting, 3D Design, Color Theory) and take part in guided art visits and stages, to cultivate their artistic sensibilities and global perspective as a designer and complete a season’s collection.
I. Construction and Techniques
- The various components, the constructive way, the assembly
- The heels, the upper, the accessories
II. Design
- Starting sketches
- Modifying strategies
- Possibilities of customization
- Processing the shape and several applications on the footwear
- Designing with decorations materials
- The logo and its decorative use
III. Technical Drawing
- Representation techniques
- The use of color and application techniques
- Texturizing through the computer
- Application of existing materials.
“Photoshop” and “Illustrator” are the software used during design classes.
The students enrolled in the Master Course will pursue more advanced techniques of shoe design according to their research topic. During the course, students will explore various aspects of the shoe industry, including the expression of creativity and techniques in the shoe design process as well as the practical process of sales and business side, with emphasis on the practical application of their study to the shoe industry.
Accademia Riaci offers unique opportunities for students, thanks to its close relationship with the leather industry. Students will have a chance to learn first-hand how shoe design is realized through concept work-production-sales, by visiting shoe factories, shoe companies, etc. During the second semester of the course, students will work on “Corporate Study”, in which students can work on projects together with local companies/designers under the supervision of the professor, to learn the actual production process in Italy, which is known for designing shoes of the highest quality in the world.
Designed for aspiring designers and fashion enthusiasts, this program covers every aspect of footwear creation.
I. Construction & Techniques
Component Mastery: Gain a deep understanding of each element that forms a shoe, from structure to assembly.
Heels, Uppers & Accessories: Develop hands-on skills in crafting heels, shaping uppers, and incorporating accessories to complete your creations.
II. Design Development
Creative Conceptualization: Start with freehand sketches to bring your ideas to life and define your unique design style.
Design Refinement: Learn how to evolve and adjust your designs while staying true to your creative vision.
Customization: Explore limitless customization options that make every design one-of-a-kind.
Footwear Shaping: Delve into form and silhouette development, experimenting with different applications and structures.
Decorative Elements: Incorporate decorative materials creatively to enhance visual appeal.
Logo Integration: Discover innovative ways to include logos as graphic and artistic elements in your designs.
III. Technical Drawing
Visual Representation: Learn professional illustration techniques to effectively communicate your ideas.
Color & Texture Application: Understand the strategic use of color, texture, and materials in your designs.
Digital Rendering: Use industry-standard tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to elevate your concepts with realistic digital renderings.
Material Application: Learn how to integrate real-world materials into your digital and physical prototypes.
Technical Requirements
To fully participate in the course, students are required to bring a laptop or compatible digital device, such as a tablet, for working on digital assignments and accessing course resources.
Note: the "Summer Intensive Course" has the same contents as the "Short Course", but with a double number of lessons. Furthermore, it includes housing and extracurricular activities, and services.
Designed for aspiring designers and fashion enthusiasts, this program covers every aspect of footwear creation.
I. Construction & Techniques
Component Mastery: Gain a deep understanding of each element that forms a shoe, from structure to assembly.
Heels, Uppers & Accessories: Develop hands-on skills in crafting heels, shaping uppers, and incorporating accessories to complete your creations.
II. Design Development
Creative Conceptualization: Start with freehand sketches to bring your ideas to life and define your unique design style.
Design Refinement: Learn how to evolve and adjust your designs while staying true to your creative vision.
Customization: Explore limitless customization options that make every design one-of-a-kind.
Footwear Shaping: Delve into form and silhouette development, experimenting with different applications and structures.
Decorative Elements: Incorporate decorative materials creatively to enhance visual appeal.
Logo Integration: Discover innovative ways to include logos as graphic and artistic elements in your designs.
III. Technical Drawing
Visual Representation: Learn professional illustration techniques to effectively communicate your ideas.
Color & Texture Application: Understand the strategic use of color, texture, and materials in your designs.
Digital Rendering: Use industry-standard tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to elevate your concepts with realistic digital renderings.
Material Application: Learn how to integrate real-world materials into your digital and physical prototypes.
Technical Requirements
To fully participate in the course, students are required to bring a laptop or compatible digital device, such as a tablet, for working on digital assignments and accessing course resources.
Summer Course fees include:
NOT included:
Footwear Design instructors are experienced Italian professionals who have been working in the fashion industry for generations. They will guide students through each step of the footwear design process in a clear and accessible manner.
Additionally, students enrolled in long-term programs will have the opportunity to visit the Footwear Museum in Florence, accompanied by their instructor. This renowned museum is dedicated to the life and work of the iconic Italian shoe designer, Salvatore Ferragamo.
