There is a lot of talk — and work — around 3D printed shoes. A few designers have taken a shot at it and 3D Systems used 3D printed shoes to help promote the consumer appeal of its Cubify network. However one designer who is most definitely serious about 3D printed shoes is Bryan Oknyansky.
As 3DPI reported last May, he launched the Shoes by Bryan website, which offers 3D printed high heeled ladies shoes. The real innovation is that the website allows people to easily modify and personalize the shoes and have them 3D printed to fit. His shoes attracted a lot of attention at last November’s 3D Print Show in London and now Bryan is trying to get to the mainstream.
To do it he is participating in the MUUSE x VOGUE Talents YOUNG VISION AWARD Accessories 2014, with an incredible new set of shoes 3D printed in metal. His “Heavy Metal Series” was selected for the first round where they will have to be voted on to advance to round 2. If he can garner enough votes on his entry page by February 17th at noon, he will move on to Round 2, where Vogue Senior Fashion Editor and Vogue Talents Editor, Sara Maino, will select the winner.
Shoes are for certain one of the items that will help set the pace for 3D printing’s establishment into popular culture. Needless to say that Bryan’s victory or at least his advancement in a contest promoted by a magazine as authoritative in the fashion industry as Vogue, will help the entire 3D printing industry and community of enthusiasts gain visibility and new fans.
I am not sure if Bryan’s business model has proven sustainable yet but he certainly has the courage to follow his dream. So, if you want to support him, here is where you can cast your vote.
