I have been trying to be a better consumer in all areas including some clothing by buying fair trade, sustainable materials and seeking out items that can help reduce my carbon footprint. I came across these cool shoes by Melissa - recyclable, sustainable and architectural. They are Brazil's hottest export. I thought havaianas were it for me, but these are so cute! Melissa Shoes was founded on the premise of sustainability. Even better, the socially responsible company employs sustainable practices and pays employees above-average wages and benefits. Unlike Crocs, the shoes are made from recycled materials — even last year's leftover shoes. Love that! They recycle 99.9 percent of waste and water used in production. The company has produced 50 million pairs of shoes in the last 25 years. Each pair is crafted from technologically-engineered injected thermoplastic that easily molds to feet for the most comfortable fit around. Plus, they're totally hypoallergenic and odorless.Melissa has partnered with some of the most forward-thinking designers and architects to create fresh and innovative boots, flats, wedges and heels. From celebrated architect Zaha Hadid (1st woman laureate of the Pritzker Prize for Architecture) to London's gender-bending punk fashion designer Judy Blame (Louis Vuitton and Commes des Garcon) and Karim Rashid. Soon...a design collaboration with the Queen of London punk, Vivienne Westwood.
The website is not in English, but you can buy Melissa Shoes at one of my favorite online retailers @ Revolve Clothing or on Zappos.com which is currently sold out.
