Eco Friendly Sandals For Summer

Posted on May 25, 2012 by admin

I have been waiting for this moment when the sun is shining so much that the only shoes I can bare to wear is sandals, eco friendly of course! I Of course as I don’t wear socks with my sandals, it is really important to find a pair that is super comfy but also looks good with just about all of my summer clothes.

I have and have, in the past, had some really comfy shoes from Pikolinos, Birkenstock and Dream in Green, all which you can buy from Spartoo, so these would definitely be my first port of call for a fanastic pair of eco friendly sandals.

Birkenstock are the perfect daytime shoes whether you are on the beach or by the pool on holiday or even sight seeing. They have an anatomic sole and are easy to slip on and off making them perfect for holidays.

Dream in Green have some slightly more glamorous styles that are perfect for an evening out but also still good and comfy enough for everyday wear.

Last but not least, Pikolinos have some fantastic on trend styles this summer, with delicate and intricate designs that will look good with both dresses and shorts.

Now there is just time for a quick DIY pedicure before I get those tootsies out and about and sandals on for summer.

Hope you have a lovely weekend and enjoy the gorgeous sunshine. I am planning on spending as much time in the garden as possible.

With warmest wishes

Ceri x

Veja Ethical Shoes and the Observer Ethical Awards

Posted on May 17, 2012 by admin

As a teenager, I spent a lot of time sailing pretty much lived in my deck shoes both onland and off land. They were super comfy and easy to wear but were never quite as colourful as these fantastic ones by ethical shoe brand Veja. The summer collection is called Mediterranee and is made from two tone organic cotton with vulcanized wild rubber soles.

Veja also have some fantastic trainers sneaker (or daps as they call them here in the West Country), with a fantastic retro style inspired by running tennis and Volley ball shoes.

The brand has a vision simple vision where another world is possible. They are inventing new ways to work that use ecologically friendly materials including organic and Fairtrade cotton from North East Brazil, vegetable tanned leathers and natural latex and a global chain which respects workers diginity. The brand also minimises its environmental impact and carbon emmissions at many levelsi ncluding energy use, transportation and packaging but they openly and honestly admit there limitations which include that the pigments used for dying leather, rubber and cotton, are not made from natural products. By reading the brands website you can begin to understand the huge challenges which face ethical shoe and fashion brands but it is great to see that Veja are taking postive steps in working towards their companies vision.

And here is the bit that is really interesting! Veja does not advertise. The resources saved are integrated into the production chain. This means the farmers and producers Veja works with are fairly remunerated – to accomodate their social and environmental requirements.

Veja have been shortlisted for Observer Ethical Awards in the Fashion and accessories category which is sponsored by Vogue. They have some really tough competition in this categroy with Ada Zandition and Bottle Top, both of which create pieces that are desirable beyond just their ethics (as is Veja). The winners will be announced at a ceremony on 30th May. Would Veja get your vote?

With warmest wishes

Ceri x

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Tuesday Treats – Ethical Shoes in the Sales

Posted on January 17, 2012 by admin

I am always complaining how affordable ethical shoes are difficult to find. But lately I have changed my mind on that one. Spartoo has an amazing collection of ethical shoes and they also have some amazing bargains in the sales. Here are just a few of my favourites which are made from naturally tanned leather or other recyclable or natural and biodegradable materials.

First up are these amazing shoes by Dream in Green, they are made using vegetable tanned leather. I actually have these shoes and wear them loads, you can see them in this outfit post. They have just the right amount of heel to give me some height and make my legs look longer but also be comfortable to walk in. They are reduced from £184 to £87! There are also plenty of other beautiful Dream in Green shoes in the sale.

If you are in need of a lady like pair of shoes to go with vintage style dresses for spring, these court shoes by Terra Plana are great. The black and white combo goes with any colour and they are also super comfy. They are made from recycled materials including leather. Reduced from £111 to £78.

These fabulous brogues are from the Alexandre Herchovitch collection for Melissa, they are made from sweet smelling plastic which is recyclable. They are reduced to just £51 in the sale. There are also plenty of other Melissa shoes in the Sale.

These boots by Think are a classic style that will never go out of fashion, they can be worn all winter long. They are made from chromium free vegetable tanned leather.

That’s all for today. I hope that you are having a fantastic week!

With warmest wishes

Ceri