News Archive
Stef walks tall with split sole invention
STEF Heydecke studied fashion promotion at Southampton Solent University and for her final footwear project decided to create a new design that was both fashionable and functional.
Her folding shoes - which have a split sole that allows them to be stored away without losing their shape - became an instant success and she was introduced to Bacup Shoes, who were working on a similar project.
Stef said: 'The original inspiration came from the fact that all women have the common problem of wearing high heels because they look good, but don't always think about how they feel and then end up suffering for it."
STEF Heydecke studied fashion promotion at Southampton Solent University and for her final footwear project decided to create a new design that was both fashionable and functional.
Her folding shoes - which have a split sole that allows them to be stored away without losing their shape - became an instant success and she was introduced to Bacup Shoes, who were working on a similar project.
Stef said: 'The original inspiration came from the fact that all women have the common problem of wearing high heels because they look good, but don't always think about how they feel and then end up suffering for it."
Couple offer a helping brand ...
AS founders of supplier Action Apparal, Alan and wife Katherine helped build up brands including Chilli Pepper, Chilli Red and Chilli couture.
And in September, after selling their interest in the company, the pair set up The Brand Forum - designed to help retailers develop their own brands and assist brands who want to broaden their offer.
Alan said: 'I hate to use the word 'consultancy' but that's essentially what it is. When we sold Action Apparal the natural thing was for us to look at setting up another brand but we felt that today's environment gave us a good opportunity to share our knowledge with others, particularly those who may be struggling."
AS founders of supplier Action Apparal, Alan and wife Katherine helped build up brands including Chilli Pepper, Chilli Red and Chilli couture.
And in September, after selling their interest in the company, the pair set up The Brand Forum - designed to help retailers develop their own brands and assist brands who want to broaden their offer.
Alan said: 'I hate to use the word 'consultancy' but that's essentially what it is. When we sold Action Apparal the natural thing was for us to look at setting up another brand but we felt that today's environment gave us a good opportunity to share our knowledge with others, particularly those who may be struggling."
