Vein Wear Bespoke Boots

Recently we made a bespoke pair of shoes for our customer Tyson Cunningham. I want to share with you the process briefly.

Tyson loved the Bandaged Ankle Boots, but wanted something really special and unique. So he came into the Vein Shoe Store and we looked through a range of available leathers. Tyson chose a selection of leathers and mapped them out on the boot. Then he tried on the original boots and confirmed the fit and his size are perfect.

From there, I created a mock-up of the design.

Tyson wanted "naming rights" to his boots. So we made up an insole stamp and an outsole embossing stamp of his name. Tyson provided the font and layout he preferred.

Then we went to work making the boots. The process takes about 6 weeks depending on the availability of the leathers. The boots are handmade by genuine masters with about 40 years experience cobbling fine men's shoes in the Vein Wear Taipei Workshop.

Given Louis Vuitton's recent misleading messages, I should clarify what I mean by "handmade". The designs are hand-drawn using pencil and paper. The patterns are drawn and cut by hand using tape, a pencil and a knife. The pieces of leather are cut out by hand using a knife and scissors. The upper pieces are stitched together using a sewing machine. The uppers are lasted by hand using tacks and a hammer. The sole is attached by hand and then a compression machine solidifies the bond.

Here are the finished boots. Tyson was ecstatic:

"Facing the challenge of finding unique men’s footwear that isn’t mainstream; approaching the team at Vein was the best possible option. The multitude of designs and leathers provide unlimited avenues to travel when customizing a pair of shoes. The Vein team were there all the way to assist in the creation of the amazing pair of shoes you see in the photos. Attention to detail is key and Vein holds this in highest regard, the shoes are- Bespoke. Vein’s bespoke service is second to none; well designed, well made, well done. Thank you Christopher!"

The cost of a customised pair of Vein's starts from only an additional $40.00 for the special order. Other variables that can increase the price are the cost and availability of the leather, pattern changes and naming stamps.

If you are thinking about something special, or different, or particular, you should consider getting them made in Vein. Please email your questions to chris@veinwear.com.

Recently Released - Dandy Loafer in Black and White

Shoe Description:

Light. Dandy.

These understated lace-ups will put a skip in your step.

They feature a super light slipper-style sole that is soft and flexible. You will hardly know you are wearing them.

The full leather lining is non-dyed, neutral and non-allergenic.  The foot-bed is softly padded.

Every pair comes with their own velvety dust bags for storage and travel protection.

Get them now for $229.00 in the Vein Shoe Store or online at VeinWear.com.

Chris Worfold - New Work

Awesome new sketches by artist Chris Worfold featuring the Vein Wear Light Blue Lankle Loafers ($229.00).

Chris is off to New York soon, so if you want to purchase any of his works, you had better get in quick. You can see recent works at his blog http://chrisworfold.blogspot.com/ ... highly recommended!

If you want to get the shoes for yourself, you can do so at VeinWear.com.

The Creative Look

The Creative by adamgrant on Polyvore.com

Items in this set:
Vein Wear Combo Boot
Billie Bound Destructed Multipocket Trench Coat, $375
BIG SOFT LEATHER SHOPPING BAG, 370 EUR
Skinny Jeans - Mens Jeans - TOPMAN, 25 GBP
Cardigans - Mens Cardigans & Jumpers - TOPMAN, 49 GBP


Often when it comes to casual Friday in the corporate world many are left wondering what to wear, or more importantly how to still look professional. With the assistance of Polyvore I have put together some key looks for the fashion forward male that will ensure you are always looking your best.


A Trench coat is the perfect option for adding a modern edge to your wardrobe. By adding a slim leg Jean in a block colour and hooded jumper you have created a modern urban look that is suitable for most work commitments and that will also take you to pre weekend celebrations.


Add extra polish with the Vein Wear Combo Boot, a contemporary style that would also work well with a suit, a classic silver watch and a leather oversized carry all.


by Adam Grant

Cinderella Competition Winners

Congratulations to Callum Macsween and Leonie Cavanagh who have won the Vein Shoe Store Cinderella Competition! Respectively they have won a pair of Black and White Dandy Loafers and a pair of Black and Green Long Boots.

Fibashion interview with Christopher McCallum

Q1. Could you please tell us a bit more about your background, what made you become a footwear designer?

A1. I decided quite early that I wanted to follow my passions in life rather than work in an unfulfilling career and have hobbies. I would rather enjoy what I do every day and have my work be an extension of who I am. It’s a long-term decision and involves a lot of sacrifice, but I am happy with the decision so far. To be a designer fulfils my creative energies and provides the satisfaction that comes from creating a physical object that people enjoy interacting with. Before I decided to become a designer I was studying commerce and law.

Q2. Briefly tell us about the design process of footwear.

A2. Our shoes are all handmade in small quantities (often only a single customised pair). We don’t use any CAD design software or automated machinery or use injection moulding. I sketch the lasts, and they are shaped by hand. A sample is made and then we adjust. Then I sketch the designs and we make a pattern based on those designs. Again a sample is made and then we adjust. After that I look at materials, leathers, colours and finishings for the shoe and sketch a colour mock-up. If I’m happy, I’ll make a sample using those materials and colours. Voila!

Q3. Your career highlight?

A3. I don’t think I have had my career highlight yet. There’s hopefully a long way to go. If I had to choose one so far, I would say being recognised by TCB as Australia’s best shoe designer and winning a free retail store in Brisbane’s TCB Centre.

Q4. How does your job influence your life? (in other words, how do you look at footwear?)

A4. I look at footwear as a story and a feeling. Anyone can copy anyone, and usually do it cheaper. So the look or fashion is actually less important to me. The story of who designed the shoes, who made the shoes, what their experience is, how they made them and using what materials impacts how I feel about wearing the shoes a lot.

Q5. Where do you think the future of footwear design is heading in the next 5 years?

A5. I don’t know where the future of footwear design is heading in the next 5 years. I can tell you where I will be going though. I want to do a lot of customised shoes and shoes made specifically for a single customer. It provides the greatest satisfaction to the customer, the designer and the cobbler. It also minimises waste and environmental impact. I believe for people to feel a connection to their shoes, they need to feel a connection with the designer and the cobbler. That is just not possible on a mass-produced scale.

The week that was, Fashion Week: On the Front Row

Last week saw the fifteen year celebration of Rosemount Australian Fashion Week. And what a celebration it was. I had the opportunity once again to work with IMG as a sponsorship host and look after the event sponsors for the duration of the week.

I was incredibly interested to see who would have the strongest presence in the front row this season, would it be the often very glamorous glossy magazine editor or the unassuming and awkward fashion blogger.

Much to my surprise it was the blogger who was seen at every show and frantically transferring images from the iPhone to the mac and within seconds, posting it on their blog for the world to see.

It was quite amazing to watch this new force within the industry juggle an iPhone, camera and laptop all at once whilst also twittering on the collection being presented. This week solidified the fact the fashion blogger is the flavour of the month for the fashion industry.

Also present were the editors, more so team Vogue than the other publications, alas they were also absent from the famous Rosemount VIP Wine Bar, where in seasons past they would be seen chatting to the designers and celebrity guests.

I must admit I am happy to see a turn-around in the ranks of whom now influences the general public on fashion, I feel the point of view from the blogger is mostly uninfluenced and often more honest.

All in all the week was a fantastic experience, and incredibly well executed by the IMG team. With over sixty one shows running back to back and approximate twenty thousand visitors the week that was can be labelled a success... That is until next year.

by Adam Grant

Winter Fashion Set by Szuting McCallum

just for fun by kittycroquet featuring Forte Forte pants

Items in this set:
John varvatos knitwear BLUE, 190 GBP
Yigal jackets GREY, 970 GBP
Forte forte trousers DARK GREY, 205 GBP
Nicole acetate glasses, $325
H&M Shop Online

New Poll: Are you on the love boat?

Online Surveys & Market Research

Lodger Poll Results

The Results of the Lodger Poll are in:

• 70% say, "Gimme gimme gimme! I love them."
• 20% say, "I guess they are OK, but I would get bashed at the pub if I wore them."
• 10% say, "They are in poor taste."

Great results for Lodger. If you really do want them, you can get them from http://www.lodgerfootwear.com/ 

This result has inspired me, and I think I will release a purple shoe. God help anyone that wears them to the pub!

Is Fashion Week Selling Dreams to Naive Young Designers?

This week in fashion:

1. Rosemount Australian Fashion Week plays out in Sydney;
2. I was interviewed about being a fashion entrepreneur;
3. Project Runway entries opened in the US;
4. More details emerged from the Alexander McQueen inquest.

So when I came across this article by Lisa Armstrong in the UK Times it caught my attention. As part of the inquiry into Alexander McQueen's death, details have emerged that the label was having money problems. The question is posed, "If after nearly ten years, McQueen's label was still straining to turn a profit, what hope for the newer wave of designers?" And it is a very good question.

After eight years in the fashion industry I still don't personally know even one designer that is making good money. None of them will admit that in public because it's all about the smoke and mirrors of looking sucessful. The problem there is that most young designers themselves can't see past the smoke and mirrors put out by their peers. 

I remember talking to a friend/designer not too long ago about Ksubi. He was wondering how to really crack it big like them. He would not believe me when I said it was all smoke and mirrors. Literally weeks after that conversation Ksubi went into administration.

The barriers to entry in starting your own label are surprisingly low. The process runs like this... Decide you've got better fashion taste than everyone else. Design a logo. Go to fashion school, or not. Sketch some designs. Find someone to make them, or make them yourself. Pay the entry fee for Fashion Week and hope like hell you get some publicity. Drink as much free champagne as possible. Hire a PR agent. Become a celebrity, or not.  

The result of all that is hopefully sales. Remember, you can't eat press placements. But sales to who? Hot new retail stores, of course.

Unfortunately the barriers to entry in starting your own retail store are equally low. The process runs like this... Decide you've got better fashion taste than everyone else. Design a logo. Find a location and negotiate 6 months free rent and a fit-out contribution from the landlord. Visit Fashion Week and place orders on credit from desperate designers. Fill the store with new designer clothes. Open for trade. Expenses-to-date: $0.00. 

The result of all that is usually poorer than expected demand, leading to discount sales. The designers won't get paid and 6-12 months later the shop-keeper does a runner.

Although it might not sound it, I'm actually feeling quite upbeat about the fashion industry today. Lisa's article just seemed to ring true here in Australia as well. Designer be warned.

Queensland Brides: Finishing Touches for the Groom

Cult Brisbane shoe label Vein Wear has recently opened their second boutique, with details like lacquered tree trunk chandeliers and a luxe red cedar display wall offering a remarkable retail experience. All designs are sketched and then crafted by hand - a rare thing indeed! 

And don't let your groom go alone as the new boutique will soon be home to women's range Kitty Croquet. 

Head to Shop 25 in the heritage-listed Brisbane Arcade, Queen Street Mall.

www.veinwear.com

City News: If the shoe fits, it's all yours!

If the shoe fits, it's all yours!

VEIN Wear shoes celebrates its third year in Fortitude Valley's TCB Arcade this month with an enchanting Cinderella and Prince Charming promo until May 21. Vein is giving away one pair of Kitty Croquet ladies slouch boots valued at $329, and one pair of Vein Wear men's Dandy Loafers valued at $229. Simply go into the store and ask if you can try on the shoe prize, and if it fits you perfectly you go into the running to win the pair.

Style Magazine: Secrets of Brisbane's Fashion Savvy

A MENS FOOTWEAR designer, Chris cites Super Cobbler at Lutwyche Shopping Centre (p 3857 2826) and Hallelujah Shoeworks at Broadway on the Mall in the City (p 3211 3966) as his fave footwear repairers. "They are true artists. They will take a shoe and give it back to you better than new!" he says.

Rag Trader Magazine: Store Concept

Best foot forward

RAGTRADER REGULARLY PROFILES NEW CONCEPT STORES IN THE DOMESTIC MARKET. THIS EDITION, ASSIA BENMEDJDOUB DISCOVERS HOW VEIN WEAR IS PUTTING THE MUSCLE BACK INTO FOOTWEAR.

BRISBANE-BASED VEIN WEAR specialises in hand-produced footwear; enlisting workers at its production workshop in Taipei to create just 10 to 100 pairs of a single style each year. Founder Chris McCallum wanted to reflect this "raw and textural" approach to manufacturing in the brand's second Queensland store, located in the Brisbane Arcade.

Built by Verve Construction, the design of the 40sqm store is a collaborative venture between local artist Chris Worfold and McCallum. Women's shoes, branded Kitty Croquet, sit on blocks arranged on the left hand side of the store, while men's shoes sit on blocks or wooden shoe moulds against a Western Red Cedar wall on the right. The most eye-catching elememt is the chandeliers crafted from white-lacquered tree trunks, a theme which has been carried over to the window display which features a large white-lacquered tree trunk on a wooden box.

"The women's shoes are arranged around and on the tree trunk, while the men's shoes are on wooden stakes which are slotted into purpose-built circular holes in the box," McCallum says. "There is an electricity switch under the box, so the front window is never limited as to what it can achieve visually. At this stage, the plan is to change this front window display seasonally." 

Key colours used in the interior design include white, maroon, brown,grey and red offset with wooden, leather and velvet textures. A floor-to-ceiling mirror with an antique tarnished gold frame adds to the store's rustic theme, along with recycled house doors (knobs still attached) which have been fitted with blocks to carry the women's product offer. The retail counter has been crafted from an old barn door found on Worfold's rural property; his original paintings, including a floor-to-ceiling black and white fashion illustration, also featured throughout the store.

"As per our Fortitude Valley store, the new boutique also features two maroon Chesterfield couches," McCallum says. "The idea was to create something that was still recognisably Vein - with the same basic layout and leather seating as our first store - but make this one feel more raw and textural and bring some of the outdoors in. The reason for this was to give it warmth and differentiate it from the minimal, slick, monochrome shoe stores you typically find around Brisbane city."

Rag Trader Magazine: Blog to blog

Vein Wear founder Chris McCallum reveals how boutique footwear players can nail offshore manufacturing.

02 Feb 2010

Boutique footwear labels are gaining serious ground in the Australian market, as revealed in Ragtrader magazine's recent shoe report. Chris McCallum, founder of Queensland-based brand Vein Wear, reveals his production secrets.

Each year, 11 billion pairs of shoes are produced worldwide. Of that figure, Brisbane-based Vein Wear handmake just 10 to 100 pairs in each style in the spirit of true craftsmanship.

Mass production footwear factories around the world today typically use a ‘conveyor belt’ of workers who are each assigned to a very small section of the shoe-making process and thus do not understand how to make a pair of shoes from beginning to end.
Because each worker is unaware of what the workers before them did, there are no check-points, so if a mistake is made, the shoe will still continue down the line until its faulty completion.

At Vein Wear, however, each shoe is crafted by master cobblers according to old traditions. The label’s head patternmaker, Sen Shi Fu, is a master with over 40 years of experience, and chief cobbler, Mr Bitters, has over 35 years of experience.
Walk into a shoe store and ask for the name of their chief cobbler, patternmaker or designer and they typically won't have seen or heard of these people. Walk into Vein Wear, however, and we’ll tell you about them all!

At Vein’s production workshop in Taipei, each cobbler is responsible for the shoe he accepts at his check-point. He is also responsible if the next check-point rejects the work he has just completed. New cobblers begin their career at the first check-point.

Only after three years and four months at the same check-point will they have the opportunity to graduate to the next check-point. After graduating, the cobbler then receives shoes passed up from the check-point they worked at previously.
Only having masters handling the footwear means every step in the shoe-making process is actually a quality control test.
We also personally hand pick the highest grade leathers (which have passed rigorous tests for colour, strength and consistency) directly from tanneries across the globe. What’s more, each pair of shoes is made from the same piece of leather so they match perfectly.

The leather bonding process is then tested in hot and cold environments to ensure the shoes perform in both summer and winter extremes.

You may ask why anyone would hand-craft shoes in a world obsessed with churning out huge volumes with machine manufacturing.
Sure, “production-line” shoes thrive because they are cheap, but when you invest a little – or a lot – more for hand-made shoes you save money in the long run. Look after them and they’ll serve you well for a long, long time.

Vein Team Refuse To Labour on Labour Day

The team have refused to work on Labour Day. Fancy that...a day celebrated for labour and nobody wants to work. ;) So the stores will be closed and you can have a day off from your hectic shopping schedules. We will be open bright and early on Tuesday for all you shoe addicts to get a fresh shot of leather to the feet.