Shoes Have Names

Jo Cope and Shelter come together at Boutique by Shelter in a truly unique collaboration at Coal Drops Yard, for London Craft Week 2020.

During the week, this exhibition and retail space celebrates the positive change Shelter has helped make to people struggling with bad housing through their advice and support services. Shoe designers from the UK/ Europe worked with individuals who faced homelessness to understand their story and their future hopes after working with Shelter. The resulting shoes represent the 'positive steps forward' made by individuals and families.

The exhibition aims to raise awareness of the thousands of people tackling evictions, poor housing conditions, landlord issues and homelessness. But Shelter gives hope. With the right support and by working together, people can fight bad housing and make a positive change.

Every shoe tells a story

Each shoe or pair of shoes created by the designers will be named after the person who’s been supported by Shelter. The designers have been asked to create a unique design reflecting the stories of the individuals using the materials they are most comfortable using from their current design specialisms.

Shoes traditionally have names to positively identify their individual styles. To own or put on a special pair of shoes is also symbolic of 'Having somewhere to go', while shoes also offer practical protection comfort as should the home. In contrast, people facing homelessness can lose a sense of personal identity and safety.

This blog will give updates on the designers taking part and progress of the individual projects.

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