Today we chat with Felicity Cooney, a talented shoemaker based on the Sunshine Coast. Be sure to check out Felicity’s handmade creations at our Melbourne and Brisbane markets!
Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to begin your label.
I grew up on the Sunshine Coast and at 20 moved to New York to study fashion. After some time working in New York I knew I wanted to start my own business focusing on products that could be made in studio. I really deplore most factory conditions and I think the fashion industry needs to do something to change this. So my solution was to move back to Australia and set up a studio in a shed on my parents farm. I’m very proud to personally make each pair of sandals.
Who inspires you and your creative process?
My inspiration for almost all of my sandals is colour. I love looking at modern artists like Blinky Palermo and Paul Kremer for inspiration and fantastic colours. My creative process is really inspired by a summer school I did in London. It really taught me how to experiment and create my own style.
Tell us something exciting that you have planned for Felicity Cooney this year.
My label launched in May- so my whole first year of business is pretty exciting. I am completely thrilled to be at the Finders Keepers for SS16 Melbourne Markets in October and SS16 Brisbane Markets in November.
Name one resource that your label could not live without.
I have found some amazing leather suppliers in Australia. Packer Leather in Brisbane tans kangaroo leather- which is really the softest, strongest and most sustainable leather in the world! I love working with other small businesses.
Tell us about your favourite product from your collection.
It’s very hard to pick a favourite but I really love the Daisy sandal. They are the perfect balance of cute and classic and they have a contrast yellow lining – which is such a happy colour!