As sustainable practices are becoming increasingly crucial, the world of fashion and design is stepping up to the challenge. The Global Footwear Awards (GFA) recently recognized outstanding achievements in sustainable footwear, celebrating designers and brands committed to reducing their environmental impact. Here, we delve into five remarkable designs that not only garnered attention but also set new standards for sustainable footwear.
The North Face – Base Camp Mule
The Base Camp Mule, a unisex shoe designed by The North Face, goes beyond being a comfortable lounge shoe. Incorporating Circular Design principles, it is made with fewer parts and materials to facilitate easy disassembly and recycling. Consumers can return the shoes to The North Face when they’re done, contributing to a circular economy and reducing waste.
Disobedience
Disobedience’s collection embraces sustainability with the use of natural materials such as jute, cotton, linen, and bamboo. Hand-spun and hand-woven into textiles, these shoes are 100% biodegradable and recyclable. The incorporation of natural teak wood for the heels not only adds a touch of elegance but also reduces reliance on plastics.
Design Insight: The meticulous process of weaving materials on looms and the thoughtful design of the heel showcase the brand’s commitment to sustainable craftsmanship.
Arsoy Academy – FabrEco High Heel
Arsoy Academy introduces “FabrEco,” a sustainable high heel crafted from deadstock fabric. Combining elegance with eco-consciousness, these heels appeal to fashionistas who seek both style and sustainability. The use of deadstock fabric not only reduces waste but also adds a unique touch of luxury to the design.
UAL: London College of Fashion – Layers Boot
Inspired by deep-sea ecosystems and Alexander McQueen’s Plato’s Atlantis collection, the ‘Layers’ Boot serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of over-consumption. The recycled heel, made from HDPE recycled plastic, showcases the designer’s commitment to preventing waste and water pollution. The multifunctional design, influenced by traditional shoemaking methods and technology, adds versatility to the eco-friendly aesthetic.
Designer Spotlight: Damla Stilla’s unique approach, blending abstract art and cultural influences, is reflected in her sustainable shoe designs.
Surface Project – Sexy, Sustainable SS ’23 Collection
Surface Project’s collection stands out for its blend of sexiness, allure, and sustainability. The chosen style from the SS ’23 collection, titled “From Waste to Wonderful,” uses post-consumer plastic (RPET) and vegan leather (PU) for the upper, inner sole, lining, and wedge cover. With a focus on being biodegradable and GRS certified, the materials are sourced from RECOVER/POVEDA TEXTIL in Spain.
Designer’s Touch: Samir Souid‘s dedication to creating stylish, sexy, and relevant sustainable footwear challenges the perception of eco-friendly fashion.
These award-winning designs from the Global Footwear Awards exemplify the industry’s commitment to sustainability. From circular design principles to the use of natural and recycled materials, these innovative creations pave the way for a future where style and ethics seamlessly coexist in the world of footwear. As consumers become more conscious of their choices, these pieces serve as inspiring examples of how fashion can leave a positive footprint on the planet.
