Trend alert: Why everyone is stepping into customisable footwear

Vogue Singapore

2 days ago

In an age where identity is everything and individuality is currency, off-the-shelf just doesn't cut it anymore. As consumers push back on fast fashion's cookie cutter approach, they're gravitating toward pieces that reflect who they are, not just what is trending. From made-to-order jewellery to personalised bag charms, the customisation craze is picking up speed, and now it's finding its way to our feet. Customisable footwear is emerging as the next category to be taken over by personalised fashion—a space where individuality begins at ground level.
Footwear has always been more than just functional—it's a statement, a status symbol and often is the anchor of an outfit. From collectible sneakers to designer heels, shoes carry cultural weight. But in a market saturated with mass-produced styles, even the most hyped pairs can start to feel impersonal. That's why more fashion-conscious consumers are turning to customisable footwear—as a means to inject meaning and personal taste into every step. While industry giants like Nike and Vans have dipped their toes into this space with limited custom programmes, the experience often feels constrained, offering only basic colour swaps or preset options. What's been missing is a model that makes full customisation feel intuitive, stylish and truly one-of-a-kind. Overview of Pace Shoes' vibrant collection, featuring their signature floral heels, strappy sandals, and versatile silhouettes designed for personal expression. @paceshoes
Enter Pace Shoes, the independent Bangkok-based label quietly leading the way in Southeast Asia's custom footwear movement. Unlike brands that offer a handful of colourways or stitch options, Pace has built its identity around giving its customers the freedom to design shoes that feel entirely their own—all from the sole up. In a market where customisation is often synonymous with sporty, tech-first design tools, Pace brings a refreshingly feminine perspective. Their approach is less about utility, and more about sentiment. With pieces that are handmade, and an aesthetic that is vibrant and summer-coded with their floral heels being their iconic pieces, Pace taps into the emotional resonance of shoes worn on special days, styled with intent and treasured for years. It's no surprise, then, that their designs have gained popularity for vacations and milestone celebrations across the region. A glimpse into Pace Shoes' customisation process, showcasing the curated selection of satin fabrics, vegan leathers, and detachable charms. Courtesy of Pace Shoes
While the brand offers ready-made favourites, the heart of Pace Shoes lies within its thoughtfully designed customisation experience, Customise Your Own Pace —a platform that invites customers to become part of the creative process. The process begins with a selection of the brand's signature silhouettes: satin slingbacks, strappy sandals or structured heels with a nod to vintage glamour. From there, the customer is invited to curate their shoes through creative decision-making. Satin or vegan leather? Kitten heel or the classic heel? Soft blush, silver or even polka dots? Some of the charms and appliqués offered by Pace Shoes for customisation. @paceshoes
The embellishments, however, is what transforms each pair into a bespoke expression. From rhinestone-studded butterflies and beaded starfish to delicate floral appliqués and metallic wings, the charms are designed to evoke both whimsy and sophistication. Detachable as they come, they allow wearers to switch, mix and evolve their shoes over time and can also be purchased separately for future restyling—a rare combination of statement and sustainability, nostalgia and modularity. The final design is made-to-order in Bangkok, handcrafted with precision and intention. For online orders, lead times typically range between two to three weeks, underscoring the brand's commitment to thoughtful production and small-batch craftsmanship.
As the customisation wave gathers momentum, brands like Pace Shoes aren't just riding the trend—they're defining it. By placing creativity in the hands of the consumer, the label offers a glimpse into what the future of fashion could look like: deeply personal, endlessly expressive and rooted in thoughtful design.
To shop Pace Shoes, shop their official website here.