Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

Alaïa-Inspired Boots

When I caught the DIY bug, one of the first things I made was a pair of studded boots. It was around the time that Zara released this pair  that I decided I MUST own bedazzled boots. For some reason, I had it in my head that the Zara boots were in fact Alexander Wang, and that I would never be able to afford them, and so I made these. I loved them, my friends loved them, and we still wear them years later (love a good DIY that stands the test of time!). Back when studded boots were the shoe to be seen in, I saw Rosie Huntington-Whiteley rocking this Alaïa pair, and knew I wanted in.

What you will need:

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

  • Boots
  • Zips (I used these)
  • Assorted studs (I used these, these and these)
  • Fabric glue (I’ve tried a few, but this is my favourite)
  • Scissors
  • Tweezers
  • Blu-Tack
  1. Unzip the zip fastenings.

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

2. Cut any fabric attached to the metal fastening off.

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

3. Measure a length of zip against your boot, depending on the design you want to create. Since my boots had a statement heel, I decided to embellish only the heel.

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

For each length of zip that you cut, cut a second piece that is identical in length for the second shoe.

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

6. Blu-Tack the zip into position – this makes it easier to visualise your overall design and will help when it comes to glueing later.

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

7. When you’re happy with your design, you can begin glueing the zips into place. I find it easier to do this by removing the Blu-Tacked parts bit by bit, replacing the Blu-Tack with fabric glue.

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

8. Press firmly on all glued parts to ensure a secure bond.

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

9. With the foundation design in place, you can add any smaller studs. Dab a small amount of fabric glue onto a square of tinfoil. Use tweezers to pick up the studs and gently coat the back in glue.

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

10. Affix the studs to the boot.

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

11. Leave to dry, and your boots are ready to wear!

Alaïa-Inspired Boots Tutorial

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