Matthias Winkler is an Austrian, non-binary, post-avant-garde shoe designer. His vision lies in the sustainable and alternative approach to fashion and shoe production by using existing resources such as craftsmanship, old leather, leather clothing, and deadstock material. Repair and reuse are central ideas in his work, which build the foundation of a responsible way of producing new products. He uses traditional, old, and antique materials—such as work gloves, leather trou- sers, motor jackets, as well as old-fashioned equipment—to incorporate the moment of heritage into a contemporary act of craft.

Matthias Winkler completed a degree in painting at the University of Fine Arts Vienna and worked as an artist for several years before completing his fashion design studies Menswear / Footwear at the Royal College of Art in London.