When it comes to sustainable shopping, ethically made shoes aren’t the most affordable. It kind of makes sense, though, right? If there’s a wardrobe staple worth investing in, there’s no better one than on quality footwear that you can walk around in for months (or even years) before discarding.
Not to mention, shoes are one of the toughest fashion pieces to purchase secondhand (in my opinion)–though I applaud anyone who has the patience to do so as it can be quite the search to find the right pair for you.
I think shoes are generally bound to be expensive (those of good quality, anyway!) so it’s worth it to me to pay the added price of ensuring they are ethically made. That said, each of the companies below has their own sustainability standards, so it’s up to you to decide if you are comfortable with their level of transparency and use of certain materials. Shoes are tricky! But I hope this gets you off to a good start…
Chicago Ankle Strap Heels in Canela by 1 People $179 / Above photo by @charityvictoria
Danish sustainable womenswear brand 1 People, who is a new member of our ethical shop directory, has a line of shoes under $200 made from ethically-harvested teak wood with recycled brass details. After trying them on and reviewing them in person (we took this photo during our last shoot!), I knew I had to add them to this guide! The sandals are casual and comfortable, and the teak heel is stunning. If I ever put on jeans again, these will look perfect with crops!
The 1 People scarf (printed on 100% Regenerated Silk) we styled these shoes on is beautiful as well, and we’ll share more soon. In the meantime, be sure to use code ANGELA if you shop their site for 10% off your purchase.
Atelier Alienor Olive Lace Up Sandals $165
Islenas Off Grid Sandals $150
Augusta The Brand from Wolf & Badger $260
Ea Par Ta Espadrilles Palla Sora Sandals $210
Llani Shop Modern Boot in Merlot Cheque $130
About Arianne Mel Dahlia $335
Soludos Yin Yang Platform Sneaker in Coral $149
ABLE Sarai D’orsay Heel $98
Loeffler Randall Maisie Bermuda Pink Sport Sandal $195 (but if you need something more formal, the prettiest splurge would be Cammellia Bow Sandal Emerald $395)
Freedom Moses Candy Slides $50 (photo by @blaireadiebee)
Zuzii Romy Clogs in Avocado $215
Alohas Double Strap Camel Sandal (Preorder) $98/$117
Yumayo Gila Metallic slide $140
Georgia Wasabi $395 This is the one pair of all ethical shoe brands that I can see spending $400 on. HILOS mission to provide circular footwear is so fascinating to me! That means shoes are created to be recycled—deconstructed and repurposed. They’re also made from performance (AKA workout-y materials and 3D printed!) I just happened across them on Instagram one day and had to to learn more. It’s just such a unique design I can see why someone might consider this investment piece.
Where do you shop for ethically made shoes? Let us know so we can edit the post with your faves!
your two cents