A third version of the revolutionary Shoeker has just been added to Tod’s No_Code line. It’s designer, Yong Bae Seok, talks about the creative process and the evolution of men’s fashion sense
With a background in car and industrial design and having dabbled in fashion with his eponymous label, Yong Bae Seok is the brains behind the Shoeker, the marriage of the shoe and the sneaker, which became the first product in the No_Code line launched by Tod’s last year.
Yong worked directly with Tod’s chairman Diego Della Valle, the grandson of founder Filippo Della Valle, throughout the process. Della Valle’s brief was to innovate, embrace technology and break the rules—while retaining the label’s commitment to Italian craftsmanship and using refined, luxurious materials.
Although the No_Code project was launched less than a year ago, Yong has designed three versions of the Shoeker to date. To toast the launch of the third iteration, the Shoeker 03, Tod’s hosted a cocktail party at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Yong’s hometown, Seoul. We spoke to Yong before the event about the Shoeker’s dynamic design process and the evolution of men’s approach to dressing.
What’s your favourite feature of the Shoeker 03?
I love how the shape has evolved. If you cover the base of the Shoeker 03, the front tip resembles a loafer but the base is clearly that of a sneaker. I also like the range of fabrics we’ve used. We wanted materials that looked and felt technical.
We mixed leather with neoprene and updated the laces, so the shoe looks clean and modern. You’ll notice the small elastic band that has details inspired by the Tod’s Gommino and the embossing that was influenced by my background in industrial design. Together, these create a layered three-dimensional effect.
What was the most enjoyable part of the design process?
Having the opportunity to work with a globally recognisable label like Tod’s was different from any of my previous work. The most enjoyable aspect was working with the artisans who’ve been at Tod’s for years, and convincing them to use materials they wouldn’t ever think of putting on shoes. I enjoyed bringing a fresh point of view to the team.