Comfort: Transforming Footwear for Mental Health and Wellness

Award-winning Design by Jingwen Zhang

In today's busy world, where people are constantly occupied with work and responsibilities, it is easy to overlook the importance of mental well-being. Designer Jingwen Zhang recognized this issue and sought to address it through her innovative Comfort collection. Inspired by the loneliness experienced by individuals striving for their dreams or those seeking solace in a foreign land, Zhang's designs aim to provide comfort and companionship.

The unique strength of the Comfort collection lies in its ability to appeal to people's minds and promote self-care. The pieces are crafted using soft fabrics and cotton, reminiscent of a cozy pillow. By enveloping the wearer in comfort, these transformative footwear pieces create a sense of relaxation and companionship.

The realization of the Comfort collection involves the use of Italian cowhide leather, lambskin lining, laser-cut acrylic heels, and fabric and cotton treatments. Each element is carefully chosen to ensure the utmost comfort and quality.

Designed specifically for women in US size 6, the Comfort collection offers a wearable "pillow" experience. The idea behind the design is inspired by the comforting feeling of wrapping a pillow while sleeping. Zhang's combination of cloth, cotton, and leather treatment creates a surface that is both soft and comfortable, providing a sense of relief and relaxation.

The Comfort collection was developed over a period of several months, starting in April 2016 and concluding in the following month. During this time, Zhang conducted extensive research on the loneliness experienced by individuals living in metropolitan areas. She studied the challenges faced by those who relocated to big cities in pursuit of their dreams, often feeling isolated without the support of friends and family. Through her research, Zhang aimed to create a series of cozy works that would provide comfort and companionship to these brave dream-makers.

Overcoming various creative, technical, and research challenges, Zhang successfully brought her vision to life. The stability and placement of the cotton, the treatment of fabrics on leather, and the precision of the laser-cut heels were all carefully considered to ensure a seamless and transformative design.

The Comfort collection has received recognition for its exceptional design. In 2018, it was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Footwear, Shoes, and Boots Design category. This prestigious accolade is given to designs that exhibit innovation, practicality, and adherence to professional and industrial standards. The Comfort collection's ability to integrate industry best practices and provide a sense of fulfillment and positivity truly contributes to a better world.

Through the Comfort collection, Jingwen Zhang urges individuals to prioritize their mental health and find comfort in their pursuit of dreams. By offering a tangible reminder of the importance of self-care, these transformative footwear pieces provide solace and companionship to those who need it most.