1OF1 - Meet Katie

We love to make shoes that no one else can. So, we created 1OF1. Because that's exactly what it is. Painted by hand. For you and no one else.

We asked Katie some questions about our D+D custom service:

What’s your artistic background?
With a Masters in Illustration from the University of the Arts, London, I had been creating artwork one-to-one with a range of clients for a few years before joining DUKE+DEXTER as the Custom Designer.

What kind of custom requests do you usually receive?

Requests from customers vary greatly; from simple lettering, abstract artwork, to highly detailed scenic locations. I can create a huge range of artwork in any style that the customer is looking for, so the possibilities are endless when it comes to the artwork that can be created on our shoes.

What are your favourite kind of custom designs to paint?

As an illustrator, I love intricate details that really bring a pair to life. Creating eye catching designs that have a story behind them are my favourite; working closely with the customers to translate their ideas into wearable art on their shoes. It’s always wonderful to receive such positive feedback once they receive their custom pair.

What do you use to create the artwork on D+D shoes?

I use specific leather paint, of the best quality, which is suitable to use on all our leather and suede shoes. Once the painting is finished, I then seal the artwork with a varnish, designed to seal and fully protect the paint so that customers can wear their shoes as often as they like.

What is the favourite pair that you’ve created?

I recently created a really detailed pair of Lake Como for a bride and groom to be who were getting married there. I worked closely with them both to bring their idea to life in order to create a truly personal piece of artwork for their wedding day. Not only was it a lovely piece of detailed and intricate art to paint, but I loved creating something that was so special and personal to the couple.