Guillaume Philibert

Given the stature of brands like Nike, adidas, New Balance, ASICS, Vans, Converse -- not to mention high-fashion labels -- and other heavyweights, the footwear industry is seemingly one of the hardest to crack. Yet Dutchman Guillaume Philibert has done exactly that. Now in its sixth year of existence, Philibert’s Amsterdam-based Filling Pieces has grown into one of the most highly-regarded independent footwear imprints around -- and one that more than holds its own with the big boys -- thanks to a recognizable look, premium quality and handmade construction. 2015 was a particular testament to Philibert’s genius. This year alone, Filling Pieces joined forces with everyone from monkey time, Harvey Nichols, MR PORTER, ZANEROBE, UNITED ARROWS & SONS, and Daily Paper to Barneys New York, Raised By Wolves, Ones Stroke and Ronnie Fieg. This past year also saw Philibert introducing a bevy of brand new silhouettes, augmenting the enduring popularity of the Filling Pieces Low Top with “Transformed” editions of both it and the Mountain Mid while everything from metallic finishes and quilted construction to paint splatters and rugged D-ring grommets made appearances. At just 25 years of age, Philibert is undoubtedly one of the most promising young designers around and 2016 is sure to be his biggest year to date.