Shoes by royal approval

Yesterday, the Duchess of Cambridge commissioned a pair of shoes from De Montfort University student Becka Hunt, who created the winning design in a footwear competition held at the University as part of the Royal Visit.

The institution, which played host to Her Majesty The Queen, His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh and the Duchess on the first stop of the official Diamond Jubilee Tour, showcased its fashion talent with a catwalk show featuring creations by four of DMU’s Fashion Design graduates, while incorporating the footwear designs from the six finalists.
The footwear competition to create a pair of shoes for the Duchess attracted more than a hundred entries by DMU’s Footwear Design students, and six finalists presented their visions and prototypes.

The winning design chosen by Catherine was Becka Hunt’s sapphire blue suede high heels with an ornate white floral pattern incorporating pearl detail and an open front, which were inspired by 19th century fashions while incorporating the Duchesses style, and will be presented to her at a future date.

Commenting on her win, Becka said: “I am absolutely overwhelmed, excited and amazed. The attention I have had since I was announced as the winner is all a little scary to be honest, but I have to say it has been great fun and hopefully this will be good for a future career.”

De Montfort University Vice-Chancellor Dominic Shellard added: “What a huge honour and magnificent opportunity this is for Becka. It’s amazing to think that the Duchess of Cambridge – the world’s leading fashion icon – is to wear a pair of shoes designed and made here at De Montfort University.”

Images: De Montfort University