From Stella McCartney to Vaute Couture to Olsenhaus, we’ve seen the popularity of vegan clothing and shoe designers soar. And while items from big-name fashion houses like the aforementioned are not always attainable for the masses, nowadays there are plenty of products from cruelty-free brands that are.
Vegan footwear is more widely available than ever before and can be purchased in a variety of fabrics and textures. It’s usually less expensive, often waterproof, and durable. We did some digging for those who want a little more swank in their step and found everything you’d want in a shoe sans leather. From the sexy black heel and classic clog to the sleek ankle boot and essential athletic shoe, here’s a collection of animal-friendly kicks that are not only chic but affordable to boot.
The ankle boot is a cool-weather staple, and this Silence + Noise half-stacked boot from Urban Outfitters will pair perfectly with just about anything in your wardrobe.
If you’re looking to invest in a high-quality athletic shoe without breaking the bank, consider the Saucony Jazz Low Pro Vegan. This retro-cool, canvas-and-hemp shoe is smart and stylish—and for just $60, we bet you’ll buy more than one pair.
Fashionistas are forever in search of a trendy, sexy, black shoe. The Privileged Almeria Corset Heel by Nasty Gal is not only faux leather but also flirty, fun, and a perfect fit for the vegan diva.
Coconuts by Matisse’s Tulsi boot is perfect for the vegan bohemian. This fringed boot with a stacked heel is available in two colors perfect for winter: saddle and black.
The clog dates back thousands of years, but it experienced a renaissance in the ’70s and has been considered stylish ever since. We’re fans of Cape Clogs, which offers a vegan line of clogs made by hand in Sweden.
For the comfort-seeker who also wants to comfort others, TOMS offers wedges, slip-ons, and sneakers in a variety of neutral shades and brilliantly colored, quirky patterns. And with every pair of shoes purchased, TOMS will help a person in need.
Erin Goldmeier is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in The Virgin Atlantic Blog, Smart Meetings magazine, Convention South magazine, and other travel-industry publications. She’s always enjoyed reading about vegan foods and cooking and has recently developed a fascination with vegan beauty and fashion. When not working, she can be found “nerding out”—brainstorming new story ideas and planning her next travel adventure.