ByNimerta C Sharan

November 18, 2021 (IANSlife) Now, more than ever, terms like sustainability and upcycling are in the spotlight. Fashion brands across the world are inching towards eco-conscious practices, the latest being French fashion house Louis Vuitton that has launched its first vegan sneakers. For the unversed, vegan fashion is simply clothes and accessories made without using and harming animals. While a total shift towards ‘veganism’ may still take a while, there are a bunch of local footwear brands that are keeping it ethical and eco-friendly. Take a look!

 

Neeman’s

Changing the sneaker scene in India, Neeman’s is the only shoe brand made from 100 percent recycled PET bottles. With substantiality and comfort at its core, this Hyderabad-based start-up has a wide range of options to choose from – knitted sneakers, slip-ons and flip-flops. The brand aims to redefine the shoe industry by using only natural and renewable materials. 

 

Paio

Paio is a PETA-certified vegan brand founded in 2016 by Shweta Nimkar. The USP of the brand is the customisation it offers, where anything from the colours to the heel height can be modified. Using only fabrics and synthetic leather, Paio’s collection is perfect for the modern shoe-lover, especially their hot-selling embroidered mules.

 

The Alternate

The Alternate is a men’s fashion brand that promotes a cruelty-free lifestyle. Winner of the PETA ‘Best Vegan Shoes (Men) 2020’, the brand uses the finest quality materials finished with immaculate craftsmanship. From vegan mules, loafers and slip-ons to a luxe range of statement bags, this vegan label is worth checking out.

 

The Cai Store

 

Founded by Dhanraj and Aradhana Minawala, Mumbai-based The Cai Store is popular for its stylish flats and heels. The brand offers a vast range of handcrafted designs at pocket-friendly prices – everything under INR 3,500. A favourite of Bollywood celebrities and influencers, the homegrown brand also manufactures footwear for kids.

 

A Big Indian Story

A beautiful mix of cruelty-free materials and Indian crafts, A Big Indian Story is an eco-conscious brand that uses the best alternatives to animal skin leather such as pinatex and cactus leather. Based out of Pune, the brand works closely with artisans from across the country. 

 

MonkStory

Another pro-vegan brand for men, MonkStory is a one-stop shop offering a wide range of durable options – sneakers, lace-ups, boots, slip-ons and sandals. Handcrafted and homegrown, this Chennai-based label stands out for its intricate detailing and exquisite styles. Apart from shoes, they also have a collection of smart bags and belts.

 

Marcus Taurus

 

If you’re looking for elegant and affordable eco-conscious sandals, check out New Delhi-based label Marcus Taurus. This PETA-approved brand offers fuss-free styles – modern kolhapuris, metallic slides, printed flats, classic wedges and more. The shoes are comfortable, versatile and can be paired with just about anything. 

 

 

 

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