Silvia Fado continues to develop and seek out innovative, and functional, new solutions in the world of footwear. Her use of 3D printing in fashion has made her a reference in the field thanks to her perseverance and the quality of her pieces. At So Catchy! we got in touch with her recently to find out more about what she’s been up to recently and to get an inside look at some of her projects. If you’re interested in fashion innovation, then you won’t want to miss out on what Silvia has to say. And be sure to check out her hydraulic heels at the So Catchy! Shop.
So Catchy!: Silvia, we’re fascinated with how you continue to develop innovative and functional shoes. You’re unstoppable. Can you tell us a bit about the creative process of your last collection ‘Lucid Matters’.
Silvia Fado: It all begins with experiments with new materials. When I found the material for the soles, polypropylene for 3D printing, I was immediately fascinated by its characteristics: translucent, light, durable and a subtle flexibility, all good for the world of footwear. I was inspired to created a collection that would show the interior structure of the spaces created by 3D printing due to that slight transparency; the lightness and flexibility led me to design a more urban shoe than I’m used to, while maintaining the minimalist and sober style that characterizes the brand.
SC!: We love how you continue to research fashion, and accessories especially, and 3D printing. How did your collaboration with Smart Materials 3D come about?
SF: When I discovered their polypropylene material, I got in touch to propose a collaboration. First through ‘Lucid Matters’, and later for the collaboration with Miquel Suay at 080 Barcelona Fashion. From the beginning they were very receptive and believed in my project, providing the necessary support. I am truly thankful for the help they’ve given me.
SC!: Talking about collaborations, congratulations on your project with Miquel Suay for the 080 Barcelona show. Can you tell us about it?
SF: It was a wonderful experience. I’ve always dreamed of having my designs on the catwalk and this was my first experience on one that is as well recognized as 080. Miquel and I met before his show in the last edition and we immediately hit it off. A few months later he called and proposed working together. It was quite an honor to have his support and trust. The collection , ‘Coratge’ was charged with feeling for him. It was inspired in the origins of his home, the Borja and his ancestors in the world of art and the renaissance so it really was a special experience. The shoes combined traditional footwear techniques with 3D printing in polypropylene from Smart Materials 3D.
SC!: What difficulties or limitations have you found in the development of 3D printed products?
SF: The materials for footwear have to fulfill a number of specific characteristics, which is my biggest handicap for now, although that is changing. Printing time is also important, aboveall when getting close to delivery time, but we all know that for things to work out right, you’ve got to take your time. I think that all the advances that are taking place in this field are making it more competitive and providing limitless possibilities for experimentation.
SC!: As a professional, how do you see the evolution of 3D printing trend in the world of fashion?
SF: Without a doubt I believe that it is a positive evolution, and fast. New innovations in technology are coming out every day that make the process more trustworthy and increase production speed. Still, I don’t think that the whole world is going to have a 3D printer at home as some have predicted, but in the professional world, its presence is growing exponentially.
SC!: Where are you now? What are you up to?
SF: Well in September and October there a some more shows that I’m collaborating on with Miquel Suay, which will take place in emblematic places around the Community of Valencia, the homeland of the Borja, and there’ll be more surprises but that’s all I can say. I’m also experimenting with materials for new projects and developing the new collection of Dots Dash, a brand that was born out of a design contest last year and that I’ve taken the creative reins of.
SC!: From your working experience, what would you like to have been taught when you were training? What did you have to learn through trial and error?
SF: To experiment with unconventional materials and to not be afraid to try different ideas that come into your head, even if they seem difficulty. This is what I’ve learned for my insistence and nonconformity with conventional, emotionless fashion.
SC!: Tell us where you’ve been getting your inspiration these days…
SF: Vetements, @pykok, @lindasieto, @unauna.shoes.israel are some of the designers that I’ve been following recently.
Be sure to check out Silvia Fado’s Hydraulic Heels at the So Catchy! Shop.
Images courtesy of Silvia Fado
Translation and Layout by Michael Padilla
