Western Chief's children's styles are fun and full of whimsy. This is thanks to Heather Dady's impressive creative ability and affinity for all things fun and bright. She brings a certain kind of magic to the styles she designs and a contagious sense of fun to those she works with. Some of the styles she designed just this season include our Heart Parade and Unicorn Dreams rain boots.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY?

My work day starts with reading trend and color reports with a cup (or 3) of coffee. Most days I can be found designing graphics for our rain boots as well as creating new silhouette’s for cold weather boots, slippers and sandals. I spend a lot of time carefully adding details to the product to give it its own personality and uniqueness.

WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR INSPIRATION?

My greatest inspiration comes from kids themselves. Trends are now originating from the source….the kids! With technology so accessible anyone can be the next popular you tuber or blogger. Kids are inspiring other kids to be themselves, be who they want to be and love who they are. Inspired kids, inspire me.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT DESIGNING FOR WESTERN CHIEF?

My favorite part is the endless opportunities for newness. I am free to explore and create new ideas which has been very exciting and fulfilling.

“My inspiration for the season came from combining the on-trend nostalgia of the 90’s with the contemporary lifestyle of kids today. The mix of retro and modern ideas created a cool, new hybrid look that really makes a statement.”

THESE DESIGN ARE REALLY FUN AND WHIMSICAL, WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO GO THIS DIRECTION?

I think this is, and has always been in the DNA of the brand since the beginning. Our product is designed for play, adventure, exploration and so much more. Fun and whimsical patterns, silhouettes and colors inherently become part of our message and end goal.. to create smiles!

HOW DO YOU DESIGN AND WHAT TOOLS DO YOU USE?

Everything starts with pencil and paper. The natural hand movement with a pencil gives you so much more freedom and you can sketch as fast as your ideas come to you. Once I have a sketch I am happy with, I scan into Illustrator to color, add texture and graphics.

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO SEE A KID WEARING BOOTS YOU'VE DESIGNED?

Absolutely amazing!! It is such a gratifying feeling to see those smiles!! Knowing you had a part in creating joy for a child, has to be one of the best feelings in life.  Definitely inspires and makes me smile as well!

Want to be a designer for a day? Print our design sheet to choose your own colors and add your own style to a Western Chief boot!