Student strides out to win shoe award

Leeds University student Alice Lambert-Gorwyn was picked by celebrity judge Laura Whitmore as the winner of the competition, run by animal rights charity PETA and environmentally-friendly fashion firm Beyond Skin.

Her design for a high-heel shoe is made from imitation exotic skin, faux leather and microfibre suede. It will now go into production and hit the market in time for spring/summer 2014.

The 22-year-old, who lives in Leeds, said: “I am extremely passionate about animal welfare. I’m a vegetarian and have recently made the decision to stop buying leather. I would love in the future to work for an ethical company, and this competition seemed like a great stepping stone and a fantastic platform to raise awareness of such an important issue.”

The fourth-year student beat competition from as far afield as Brazil to be crowned the winner.

Television presenter Ms Whitmore described the student’s design as “slick and sophisticated” and added: “I truly believe that the future of fashion lies in sustainable, cruelty-free materials. For someone who loves fashion and cares about animals, the great news is that from the catwalk to the high street, the availability of clothes and shoes made from faux leather and faux suede is on the rise.”