Weaving Memories

Merel Decru

Vegan-leather moc-toe platform military boot with checkerboard-woven foot and tassels on the instep, 2024.

Part of the collection ‘Toe Tonne, we’ll meet again’, 4 pairs of shoes, 4th year SASK, d’Academie Beeld Sint-Niklaas in Belgium. Inspired by woven Japanese sandals, choosing to work exclusively with animal-free materials. This collection features synthetic leather, various textiles, and ribbons woven into details echoing traditional craftsmanship.

Decru: ‘This collection explores the theme of grief, inspired by personal experiences and recent losses. I aim to process these emotions meaningfully through design. I’ve divided grief into four phases: death, funeral, memories and remembrance, visually intertwined elements that shape the collection. As a member of the military, I integrated a military perspective on loss. Military boots serve as the foundation for my footwear designs, combining rugged features with elements from other shoe types.’

Photo’s by Hessel Waalewijn.


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