alien shoe notes Flashcards
consideration of function - form over function
the shoes were designed with visual impact rather than function in mind. the height of the heel and platform sole made walking difficult for the models - making them walk awkwardly and unnaturally, like ‘biomorphic creatures’. mcqueen liked this effect as he wanted to models to come across as inhuman.
consideration of function - comfort
models were uncomfortable and unbalanced, due to the height and platform which could cause them to fall. this achieved mcqueen’s goal of adding drama to the catwalk.
fitness for purpose - comfort
everyday shows are designed for comfort and protection, this does not apply to this shoe. the alien show is almost a miniature sculpture worn on a models feet, designed to be worn for short periods of time on the catwalk. designed with form over function in mind.
fitness for purpose - support
transparent straps were added after the shoes were printed, one strap went around the ankle and the other went over the top of the foot and fastened with a buckle. these added invisible support that doesn’t interfere with the design - invisible on the catwalk.
materials and techniques - 3D printer
mcqueen designed the shoes using a computer and printed them using a 3D printer. they were printed using layers of resin because despite its lightweight it was strong enough to support the models weight.
materials and techniques - resin
resin can be sanded to create a smooth surface, which was covered in iridescent paint. the shoes were produced in many colours, but the most suitable was the pearly white as it made the shoes look bone-like.
target market - plato’s atlantis
designed for visual effect, as a part of the plato’s atlantis collection rather than a target market. because of their high platform and heel they are not practical for everyday wear.
target market - lady gaga
lady gaga, known for her distinctive style, wore a pair of alien shoes in her extremely popular music video for ‘bad romance’
visual impact - alien
highly detailed design the features biomorphic bone like shape and forms that were inspired by the special effects by h.r. giger on the 1980 film Alien. the design was intended to look like a cross between alien and human forms, featuring anatomical details such as bones curving around the heel and platform.
style - spine
designed to look futuristic, referencing h.r. giver’s special effects work on alien 1980. with a spine like structure curving around the high heel.
style - alien
the shoes were heavily influenced by h.r. gigers special effects work on the 1980 film alien. referencing futuristic science fiction, detailing unusual aliens creatures.
