United Nude is a design company co-founded by a Dutch designer Rem D Koolhaas (nephew of the famous architect of the same name) and English shoemaker Galahad JD Clark in 2002. The company was launched at the London Spring/Summer Fashion Week 2003 with the introduction of the innovative Möbius shoe. Mobius was inspired by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Chair.

United Nude's stated aim was to take its influence from design and eschew seasonal fashion trends. Since launching the Mobius shoe, United Nude has introduced different versions eg three different heights have been introduced and the leather upper can be detached and replaced with a different colour upper. The shoe emulates the infinite loop of the Mies der Rohe Barcelona chair on which it is based. The fluid lines of the Mobius, available in 'mid' and 'high' versions have optional variations including detachable boot spats and ankle wraps.

The shoe's sculptural shape and design credibility have made it popular with a design conscious audience. Leading Sydney designer Liane Rossler (Dinoasaur Designs) explains her attraction to her Mobius shoes: "I love they way they are so sculptural, and I love the boldness of colour. I also loved the fact that they were designed by an architect. I thought it was THE Rem Koolhaas, but have since found out it is his nephew, also named Rem Koolhaas and also an architect. I love the way they were inspired by the Barcelona chair. I love the fact that they are inspired by the shape of the mobius that goes round and round, and reminds me of the lucky number 8, which goes around and around and symbolises never ending happiness."


ref www.unitednude.com

This pair of shoes was designed by Dutch designer Rem D Koolhaas (nephew of the Dutch architect of the same name) and Galahad Clark of United Nude in Europe. The shoes were made in China.

United Nude is a design company co-founded by a Dutch designer, Rem D. Koolhaas and an English shoemaker, Galahad JD Clark in 2002. It was launched at London Spring/Summer Fashion Week 2003 with the introduction of the innovative "Mobius" shoe. The "Mobius" shoe was inspired by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Chair. Mr Rem D Koolhaas shares his name with his uncle, the famous architect and Galahad Clark is a seventh generation shoemaker (of the English Clark shoemakers).

The shoes have never been worn. The curator approached the Australian agent Urge Footwear who agreed to donate a pair of Mobius shoes to the museum.

Shoes (pair), women's, 'Mobius Hi', with original packaging, leather / plastic / cardboard, designed by Rem D Koolhaas and Galahad Clark, Europe, made by United Nude, China, 2004

A pair of open toed mules made in white plastic and lime green leather. Accompanying the shoes is the original box and matching shoe bags provided by the manufacturer for storing each shoe. Makers marks on shoes and packaging.

Designed: Koolhaas, Rem D; Europe

Designed: Clark, Galahad; Europe

Made: United Nude TM; China; 2004

'UN United Nude TM' appears on the sole and bottom of the shoes, centre top of box and on both bags. 'Patent pending 0126323.5' is also written on the base of the shoe.

2006/41/1