Footwear Design Consultancy · New York City
For founders, creatives, and entrepreneurs ready to build a footwear brand the right way — from a single shoe to a full collection, with as much or as little guidance as you need.
Explore the processServices & Process
Every engagement is different. Some clients arrive with a clear vision and need expert hands to execute it. Others are starting from zero. Whether you're developing a single statement shoe or a complete 3-month collection build — we meet you exactly where you are, and take you where you want to go.
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About
That Shoe Designer is the practice of Erin Lavigne — a footwear designer with an uncommon foundation in automotive and industrial design. That technical background, combined with 18 years across athletic, contemporary, luxury, and runway, gives her a rare fluency in both the craft and the business of footwear. She designs with precision, builds with intention, and brings an original point of view to every engagement.
Based in New York City, this consultancy exists for the founders, creatives, and entrepreneurs who have a vision but need the expertise to bring it to life. You stay as involved — or as hands-off — as works for you. The process is open, collaborative, and built around your goals.
"There's a lot of copying in this industry. My job is to help you find what's actually yours."
From a single hero style to a full collection delivered in 3 months, That Shoe Designer is the thinking partner that takes your idea from concept to reality.
Erin Lavigne — Footwear Designer & Consultant
Common Questions
I have an idea but no design background — can I still work with you?
Absolutely. With 18 years of experience across every category and price point — from $100 athletic to $1,000 runway — I've worked with clients at every stage. You bring the idea. I bring it to life.
What do I need to bring to our first conversation?
Whatever you have. A reference image, a rough sketch, a feeling you want to capture — or simply a category and a price point in mind. There's no wrong starting point. Just a starting point.
Can you design just one shoe, or do I need a full collection?
Either. I work on everything from a single exploratory thumbnail to a fully detailed shoe to a complete seasonal collection. Whatever the scope you have in mind, I've got you covered.
What does the design process actually look like?
At its core: concept ideation → design refinement → technical detail development → materials and color. Each phase builds on the last, and the pace is always shaped by your timeline and goals.
How involved do I need to be throughout the process?
As involved or as hands-off as you'd like. Some clients want to weigh in at every sketch; others prefer key milestone check-ins and trust the process in between. We work to your comfort level.
How long does it take from concept to finished sample?
It depends on scope. A single shoe can have finished samples ready in 6–8 weeks. A full collection typically runs around 3 months. A clear timeline is established at the start of every project.
What's the difference between concept design and production-ready design?
A concept design captures direction — silhouette, proportion, aesthetic. Production-ready means the shoe is fully technically developed: construction, fit, materials, colorways, and all components specified and ready for factory approval.
Do you handle sourcing and manufacturing?
Yes. If needed, we can manage factory sourcing and serve as your hands-on liaison through development and into production approval — taking you all the way from design to finished shoe.
Is my idea protected? Do you sign NDAs?
Yes. We sign NDAs before any creative work begins. We don't sign non-competes, but your concepts, briefs, and designs remain completely confidential throughout our work together.
What footwear categories do you design for?
All of them. Athletic, luxury, streetwear, bridal, boots, sandals — every category. I also have deep technical experience with molds, lasts, and blueprints, which most designers simply don't touch.
What's the investment?
It scales with scope. Concept sketches start at $150. Single shoe development typically runs a few thousand dollars. Full collection development starts at $15,000 and up depending on complexity. Every project is quoted individually — reach out and we'll build a scope that works.
What happens after the design is finalized?
As much or as little as you need. We can deliver factory-ready tech packs, source materials, and act as your on-the-ground liaison with factory development — all the way through production approval.
Get in Touch
Available for new projects, brand consultations, speaking engagements, and creative collaboration. Every inquiry is answered personally by Erin.
iknow@thatshoedesigner.comStep 1 of 2
Check everything that feels relevant — no pressure to have it figured out.
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I respond to every inquiry personally — usually within a day or two.
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I'll be in touch personally — can't wait to hear more about what you're building.