Students Vie to Create Shoes for Kate Middleton

By Sami K. Martin, Christian Post Reporter Tuesday, February 28, 2012

The Duchess of Cambridge is getting new shoes specially designed for her by students at De Montfort University.

Six students from University have been given the opportunity of a lifetime to design a pair of shoes for Kate, who will be visiting the school on March 8 with Queen Elizabeth. Kevin Guildford, head of the footwear design program, told reporters: "We were thrilled when the Palace asked for six designs for the Duchess to choose from. It's the most fabulous opportunity for the students who couldn't hope for a bigger fashion icon to endorse their designs."

Middleton has a habit of choosing unknown or lesser known, designers and launching their designs into the stratosphere. Sarah Burton made the now-famous wedding dress for the Alexander McQueen collection and was then named Designer of the Year. Fashion gurus have called it the "Duchess Effect," which usually leads to a sell-out of whatever Kate is wearing.

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British designer Alice Temperley told the BBC that Kate is "breathing new life" into clothing lines and "looks fantastic. She's supporting British fashion by wearing British fashion, which is brilliant."

Now six British design students are hoping to place their shoes on Cinderella's feet. Tabitha Duffield told the press, "Being chosen would mean the world to me - what an exciting prospect to have such a prominent fashion figure and admired idol wearing my design." Her shoes will feature daisies and pink leather and will be "ideal for some of her public appearances over the summer."

Becka Hunt is taking a different approach. "My design is inspired by 19th century fashions and based around the things Kate wears, her engagement ring, and her style." She noted, "I am so honored and excited to be given such an amazing opportunity."

The only other student speaking publicly about her design is Summer Spencer. "I wanted to reflect Kate's personality in my design and make it relate to her," she revealed. "My family are so proud and excited for me," Spencer added.

The Duchess and Queen will announce the winner on March 8 during a school visit. The winner will then be given the right to make the exclusive shoe, which will undoubtedly cause a ripple in the fashion world and open up new doors. For those few students, March 8 cannot come soon enough!