Vegan Shoes for Summer and Beyond
Summer shoe wardrobes are dedicated multitaskers: from long days on the beach to nights being danced away, a good shoe wardrobe for summer needs to offer multiple solutions, while keeping feet comfortable and breezy in warm temperatures. Luckily, the new generation of vegan shoes isn't only kind to animals and the environment, but also offers something for every taste and occasion. Whether it's a casual-cool sneaker style or a flirty stiletto heel, our round-up of the most covetable leather-free styles of the season has it all.
The mules: Sylven New York Cass Blush Vegan Nappa Flats
Credit: Sylven New York
Mules are the perfect dressy-casual option – they offer polish while never sacrificing comfort. Sylven New York's blush-hued Cass style is made from recycled fibres and hand-crafted in Italy. The low block heel lends support without strain, and the stitching detail adds personality. Wear with loose trousers and a neutral-hued blouse.
The sandals: NAE Vegan Zinnia Orange Vegan Heeled Sandals
Credit: NAE Vegan
A vibrant pop of clour that is subtle enough to last from five-o-clock poolside cocktails to last dance of the night. This apple-leather design from NAE Vegan is the ultimate choice for when you want to bring the glamour but avoid the discomfort of higher, thinner heels. Team with a pencil skirt and loose top for a contrasting look.
The patterned flats: Momoc L'Âme De Colette Vegan
Credit: Momoc
Sometimes, you just need that extra pop of color. Spanish vegan shoe brand Momoc is an expert in footwear that stands out thanks to its inventive use of patterns. The pointy-toed flat style incorporates recycled tyres and wood, and its intricate embroidery will be a conversation starter – and without a doubt, a magnet for compliments. Pair with a black jumpsuit to give the shoes center stage.
The sneakers: Ration.L R-KIND Trainer Neptune Blue
Credit: Ration.L
Want a break from white sneakers? Check out Ration.L and their pale-blue, summer-appropriate design. This brand is truly dedicated to doing good – not only do they use organic and recycled materials, but they also donate a part of the profits to the Brain & Spine Foundation. Wear with blue denim and a crisp white tee.
The stilettos: Coquette Pegah Nude Vegan Leather Bow Heels
Credit: Coquette
Turn heads in this patent style from Coquette, whether you're headed to a daytime or evening event. The sophisticated design will add interest while the subdued shade makes these sandals easy to match – try a breezy, patterned summer dress for the ultimate hot-weather wedding-guest look.
The platforms: Stella McCartney Skyla Chain Platform Sandals
Credit: Stella McCartney
Love high heels, hate being uncomfortable? Enter platforms: the extra elevation takes the pressure off your feet, allowing for a painless wearing experience. This dopamine design is bound to become another one of Stella McCartney's covetable classics – team with wide-leg jeans and a floaty top for a Seventies-inspired feel.
Credit: Good Guys Don't Wear Leather
Comfort has never looked this stylish...and neither has sustainability: Good Guys Don't Wear Leather are the champions of extremely wearable vegan shoes, and their Juno slides in apple leather are the perfect summer footwear staple. Wear with a linen dress and bamboo beach bag.
The glamour heels: Bhava Studios Lola Platform Sandal
Credit: Bhava
Snakeskin is among the cruelest industries in fashion, condemning animals to horrendous suffering – but the good news is it's easy to get the look without the actual animal skin. Bhava's style is hand-made in Spain, incorporating animal-free snake-print vegan leather as well as a heel in solid wood. Pair with your favorite LBD to add instant glamour.
Written by Sascha Camilli
Sascha Camill is a writer, speaker and vegan fashion expert. She founded the world's first digital vegan fashion magazine Vilda, and is the author of Vegan Style: Your Plant-Based Guide to Beauty, Fashion, Home & Travel. Her podcast, Catwalk Rebel, is out now.
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