Eco-fashionistas vote with their feet
NEW YORK - ‘The evolution will be accessorised’ proclaims the website of shoe guru Elizabeth Olsen, whose vegan footwear range gives new – and quite literal - meaning to the concept of reducing your carbon footprint.
Based in Manhattan, OlsenHaus shoes, whose name pays homage to the owner’s Nordic roots, are made entirely from non-animal materials. These include organic cotton, canvas, nylon, velvet, cork, rubber and environmentally friendly man-made synthetics.
A vegetarian for 19 years and a vegan for the last two, Olsen founded the company with three aims: to raise awareness of the horrors facing farmed animals (whether they are raised for food or products such as fur, leather and wool), to highlight the environmental impact of the farming industry and change the perception of a vegan from being what she terms “granola” to something stylish.
The designer’s latest collection (Fall/Holiday ’09) includes knee-high boots in several colours; comfy flats, also in a range of colours, from subdued, go-with-anything black to bright magenta; as well as a range of chunky-heeled lace-ups and totter-worthy platforms.
But the company’s eco credentials extend further than its customers’ feet. Shoe boxes are made from recycled materials and the products are manufactured in Central America in order to reduce shipping distances. The company also operates according to fair trade standards and encourages its factories and suppliers to do the same.
It seems Olsen has found a gap in the footwear market. Hollywood celebs such as Maggie Gyllenhaal and Emily Deschanel have been seen sporting her creations and a men’s line is in the works, apparently already with a waiting list. Women’s shoes range from $125-265, and while these prices might hurt, the pain is surely worth it to protect the planet - and look good doing it.
OlsenHaus shoes are currently most widely available in North America, with a limited number of stockists in Europe and Australasia. Check the store locator on the website for complete details and a list of online retailers.
