Photo Credits: Blu Kicks
Today, the word ‘fashionable’ refers not only to footwear aesthetics, but to social responsibility too. The world`s most sparkling brands are offering creative and innovative ways to manage your wardrobe while tending to your conscience and the world at large. Programs that encourage recycling, local industry, fair trade and eco-friendly materials have become so commonplace that choosing apparel that lacks integrity is more challenging than choosing brands that do have it. Nonetheless, glamor continues to shine as brightly as ever, with this year`s shoe trends bringing sporty, elegant and even ugly styles back to winter closets.
Regatta Fashion for Marine Life
Canvas boating shoes don`t just put you in the mood for some seaside relaxation; they contribute to the view as well. The Blu Kicks brand brings this year`s seafaring trend to fans of the outdoors and for each sale a dollar is donated to the protection of ocean habitats. Taking from the same look, the trendy All-Star shape is being used by several brands to contribute to the livelihoods of an array of underprivileged rural societies. Creative craftspeople, local to regions such as Bolivia, Peru and Mexico are being employed to add their personal flare to the footwear they craft, offering fashionistas a comprehensive range of comfy Panama sneakers to wear at the beach and on the street.
Wedging the Divide between Fashion and Kindness
Females will be forgiven for wearing their stilettos this season, but wedges are far more practical. African chic continues to dominate, with Jermône Dreyfuss merging both facets while simultaneously using recyclable materials and socially responsible business practices. Toms offers the perfect cork wedge booties (pictured) while selling a generous lifestyle by example. The brand has donated ten million shoes to charity, spanning 59 countries.
Giving Back Athletically
Sportswear is one of the strongest influencers in the fashion industry this year with winter being no different. Women`s sneakers will only become flashier as the coming year progresses, with neon hues being contrasted against crazy optic designs. A number of repurposing programs have sprung up in response to the need to replace sneakers twice a year. Non-profit organizations repurpose those in good condition for athletes in developing countries. Nike`s Reuse-a-Shoe program has followed Birkenstock`s example by turning sneakers into materials used to build playground surfaces.
Surf and Skate Chic
Quicksilver`s Roxy brand has remained at the forefront of surfer chic for years. This year, sports boarding lifestyles have hit the headlines as fashions that are no longer reliant on a practical passion for fun. Instead, snowboarding boots, thong sandals and skating sneakers have become fashion statements in themselves. Women have joined a community that was once dominated by men. Roxy`s corporate persona is far more serious than its brand identity. The company supports its own philanthropic organization, which focuses on improving the lives of global board riding communities on every level. The Quicksilver Foundation supports health, education and environmental and youth projects.
Fashionistas are, for the first time this year, able to cast aside their stilettos in favor of something altogether more comfortable. Rounded toes, soft soles and supported arches are as trendy as footwear`s stylized uppers. Sporty shoe lines have long been devoted to menswear but as women become involved in the fun of boarding and boating, the related trends become increasingly stylish. To keep this emerging demographic suitably elegant, Volcom uk has hopped on board by offering a range of flats, sandals and sneakers for its female fans. More often than not, contemporary designer brands are looking to begin something of value. In the past, fashion was considered to be among the shallowest of art forms, but as couturiers lean towards giving something back to communities, ecosystems and people, the trend world is losing its cool exterior in exchange for a warmer, kinder identity.
Stay Conscious + Chic!