POLYCHROME V7
This is it! After 6+ rounds of development, all that work culminates in this sample, the V7 sample. After many hours spent searching for soles that I could get in larger quantities, but not too large, I found the exact design I needed, and even got to add a laser engraved logo to the side. This was the start of the most important round of development yet.
From there, last development commenced. There's a common adage in the footwear industry that "last comes first." In my case, however, it is the opposite. The sole dictates the last shape, and is the basis for my design. Working with a supplier in Mexico, I was able to develop a last that, although not as sleek as the V5-6 last, still conveyed the shape I was looking for and kept it stylish. It ended up being more comfortable too, since it has a wider toe box.
Now the patternmaking work started. Again working with a different shape, I wanted to carry over all the design elements from V6. The one thing I did change, was I extended the eyestays all the way to the top of the collar, and I was very happy I made that decision. All the high top sneakers I've looked at have the eyestays this way, and I'm not sure why I didn't make the decision sooner. It just makes for a more professional looking shoe. Here you can see each pattern master from V1 through to V7.
Construction remains the same. By this point, I had made so many samples that I could basically make it in my sleep! This sample colourway was made entirely with scraps I had laying around, but I will say, I really like the design and I will probably offer it in the future. Everything from stitching to lasting went really smoothly and made for an easy-going sample-making process.
Sample finished, and I'm ready to move towards production. This means digitizing and grading the pattern, buying all the materials in bulk, and marketing the heck out of the brand. We're almost there!
