Matt Berry gets a write up on Urge Footwear’s Blog
Self-confessed full-time Lifestyler and part-time Surf Shop Assistant, Matt Berry is also studying to become a shoemaker - a perfect fit for the Northern Beaches surfer who has always had a passion for fashion.
We had a chat to find out how Matt came to be a shoe designer in the making…
“I have always had a mild addiction to shoes, clothing and accessories. I found myself working 9-5 straight after school finished and I had no ambitions. I wasn’t the brightest at academic subjects at school, but found out that I have skills in design and drawing. So as I looked around I came across shoe making!!! I was intrigued, paid for the course right then and there and it is the best thing I have done to date.
“I’ll finish my studies this year and at first the plan was to start my own company designing and hand making bespoke shoes, but it is the most niche market. I would love to do that when I’m older and have a greater knowledge of the industry. I know that it will be beneficial to start off under a well established company, allowing me to gain knowledge and contacts. I love to design so, a designers job in a company would be so good!
“I feel I have my own style and don’t fit into a stereotype…(but I probably do!!!) I pride myself on my sense of fashion and style haha… but seriously, I just dress how I want to. I am frothing on a surfer called Otis Carey. Best surf style around. Same with Ozzy Wright. Amazing. I also love the old James Dean style. He is and will forever be the man when it come to classic 50’s style. Leather jackets, white shirt, riding boots. And motorcycles and porches. Oh man. Sick!!!!!
It’s a role that seems is a perfect fit for Matt - combining his interests in surfing, travel, music and fashion.
“After I finish my course I want to travel and tick off all the tourist destinations - Dapto, Umina, Darwin & Bondi. Hahaha! I just wanna head to Europe and live it up. Soak up the culture with some wine & cheese tastings, wearing my Beret and driving my Vespa! I also love surfing Hawaii. Not much can beat the Hawaiian Islands, but my home break Suck Rock at Mona is definitely up there.
And his other passions?
“I’m super picky with my music, but I’m lovin some Deep House and lo-fi Surf punk - haha - if that is even a genre? I love the movies. Midnight in Paris, Empire Records, and Tron are my favs. And food - there is nothing better than a Bento Box and Asahi to wash it down.
And what’s caught your eye from the Urge range?
“The Charlie. No matter what colour it is, or what you’re wearing, they are such a gem and go with everything. And the Sonic backpack. There are just so many little pockets and it seems to fit everything you want in it perfectly! Spot on for my trip at the end of the year!!!
