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Vancouver is home to a thriving fashion industry made up of individuals committed to its growth and success. Get to know these personalities in The Inseam and discover what makes the Vancouver Fashion scene so awesome. |
Photo: courtesy Ian Azariah
If you have an eye for footwear, you may have noticed the latest craze. Vancouver’s own Native Shoes are comfortable and light as a feather, with simple, yet classic designs in a package that is fit for all. Aside from outfitting shoe enthusiasts around the world, they also happen to be one of V.I.A.’s Community Sponsors. We check in with Native Shoes’ Founder, Damian Vann Zyll De Jong, to discuss the story behind the label.
Valerie Tiu: How did it all get started? How did you conceive of the concept behind Native shoes?
Damian Vann Zyll De Jong: Native started with the idea of creating a totally new kind of shoe - comfortable and lightweight with superior design. I founded Native in 2009 with the help of my friend Matthew Penner. Our sketches came to life through raucous discussions, many late nights, and good (and bad) advice. Eventually our prototype emerged, and we launched our first three designs.
Valerie: Who or what inspires the Native brand?
Damian: Our vision is to combine the best of evolving technology, lightweight materials, and great design to produce iconic and functional footwear. I have always been passionate about lifestyle brands, so music and visual art definitely inspire us on a daily basis at Native.
Valerie: Who wears Native Shoes?
Damian: Native shoes are for anybody, anywhere, anytime.
Valerie: How do you go about creating new styles? Can you take us through your design process?
Damian: The design process begins with drawing on inspiration from the world around me, whether I'm traveling or just walking down the street. If I see something I like, I usually try and write it down or even draw a quick sketch on a napkin. If the idea has legs, it leads to many discussions and revisions with our team, followed by the creation of several prototypes until we have it right. It can be a challenging and lengthy process but ultimately a rewarding one!
Valerie: Native has grown rapidly across the globe. Why is it important for you to base the business locally? Does living in Vancouver influence the brand?
Damian: The brand definitely has its roots firmly on the West Coast. I am travelling constantly all over the world, but there is no place like home.
Valerie: You teamed up with Marc Jacobs last year. Can we expect more collaborations like this in the future?
Damian: Absolutely. We have some exciting upcoming collaborations in the works but we can't give too much away about them yet. I am always stoked when brands and designers I respect are receptive to partnering with us or in many cases, actively seeking an opportunity to work together.
Valerie: What's next for Native?
Damian: Currently we’re trying to live up to our potential as being a fresh, new, international footwear brand. Our future brand direction and designs will continue to focus on innovation while staying true to the vision upon which Native was founded - keep it lite. We're only just getting started.
Check out the Spring/Summer 2012 Collection here.
"Paolo"
"Verona"
Photos: courtesy Native Shoes
