London-based Studio Swine cites the Philae lander's ascent onto Comet 67P as the inspiration behind its Meteorite Shoes.
Fashioned from aluminum foam, the space shoes are intended to resemble slabs of rock from outer space. In order to make the shoe as realistic as possible, the designers took a trip to London's Natural History museum, where they investigated the shapes and textures of previously discovered space rock.
The designers injected the aluminum -- which is most commonly used to insulate luxury automobiles -- with "gassing agents" while it was in its molten state, creating a "pumice-like material." They then applied CNC technology to the foam to achieve the irregular formations. While the insides of the shoes are lined for user comfort, the foam exterior (which is 90% air) stretches to cover the shoe's heel, and thus keep up the illusion that the wearer is floating on chunks of rock.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Space-inspired Fashion
- The Meteorite Shoe demonstrates the trend of incorporating space themes into fashion, creating opportunities for designers to explore other celestial objects for inspiration.
- Material Innovation
- The use of aluminum foam in the creation of the Meteorite Shoes showcases the trend of experimenting with unconventional materials in fashion, opening doors for further exploration of unique textures and properties.
- Hyperrealistic Design
- The meticulous attention to detail in replicating the appearance of space rocks in the Meteorite Shoes reflects the trend of hyperrealistic design in fashion, presenting opportunities for designers to blur the boundaries between reality and illusion.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Fashion
- The Meteorite Shoes demonstrate how the fashion industry can incorporate unconventional inspirations, materials, and design techniques to create innovative and visually striking products.
- Automotive
- The use of aluminum foam, a material commonly used in luxury car insulation, in the creation of the Meteorite Shoes suggests potential for cross-industry collaboration and the transfer of innovative materials and techniques.
- Museum and Exhibition
- The research and investigation of space rocks at the Natural History museum for the creation of the Meteorite Shoes highlights opportunities for museums and exhibitions to inspire and collaborate with designers in the fashion industry.
