In an effort to embody sustainable shoe design practices, we discovered new ways of working for the development of our SS21 collection. Pushing the boundaries of our imagination, we reframed our perception of forgotten fabrics for a zero-waste approach, while embracing new green materials in an ongoing mission to innovate. For Earth Month, we share insight into three key fabrications, mindful of both sustainability and style.
Vegan Leather
For the first time, we explored the use of Vegan Leather for a 100% eco-friendly shoe, the Raya ballerina. Entirely constituted from recycled plastic bottles and polyurethane, the elasticated upper is realised in soft rose pink. For the outsole, scrap Leather pieces have been reassembled and compressed, while all reinforcements such as the insole are non-toxic and biodegradable. To piece each component together, a solvent-free, water-based glue has been used for a responsible finish.
Zero-Waste Linen
Our luxurious Linens are woven at a heritage mill in the North of Italy using artisanal weaving techniques. A product of flax, it is kind to our planet because the whole plant can be utilised. Once the fibres have been extracted, the waste is used to make linseed oil and other biomaterials. Those spotlighted in our current collection were salvaged from a Ready-to-Wear brand’s left-over stock and reinvigorated to present a collection of powdery hued silhouettes.
Archival Mesh
Giving a new lease of life to materials from seasons past, the polka dot mesh used in our latest Runway collection is old stock left over from our Autumn 2018 collaboration with Emanuel Ungaro. Combined with surplus Nappa Leather for a sculpted top line, we were able to offer an alluring group of ethical shoes, the Vita and Vida. This considered design approach ensures that nothing is unnecessarily discarded and simultaneously encourages new creative experimentation.
