Shoe Salon

DESIGNERCHAT MARINA CHEN • VIVAIA

TRASH NEVER LOOKED so good. At least that’s what the team behind Vivaia, a sustainablythemed brand, believes its “conscious comfort” collection of mules, booties, slides, slip-ons, ballet flats, sandals, espadrilles, pumps and loafers made of recylced plastic bottle uppers reflects. In fact, Brand Director Marina Chen believes Vivaia hits on today’s Holy Grail of women’s fashion: style, sustainability and affordability (SRP: $69-$119).

“It took us a while to figure it out, but our fashionable footwear looks high-end but is made from recycled plastic bottle materials,” Chen says. “Women who are committed to reducing their carbon footprint—and don’t want to support plastics that harm the earth’s ecosystems—finally have it all!”

Chen says Vivaia shoes offer the same comfort of high-end fabrics and textiles. The brand’s 3D knit technology is a soft but durable weave, providing airflow and flexibility for different foot shapes and sizes. Insoles are made of similar recycled fibers and the outsoles are biodegradable natural rubber. “This is better than suede, better than leather and it’s good for the earth, too,” Chen says.

For Spring ’22, Vivaia’s focus is on offering the “preppiest” sneakers, the chicest sandals and eye-popping accents, according to Chen. “We’re going all in on the details, accenting every woven, upcycled element with neutral shades,” she says. “We have shoes perfect for the office, a day out or a night on the town. Neutrality is the perfect note, because it provides maximal mix-and-match opportunities for the woman on the go.” Chen, who has 20 years of experience in sourcing and supply chain management, adds that the sustainable materials the one-year-old Vivaia uses offer plenty of design versatility going forward. “These raw materials can be reimagined in endless ways—from new weaves and textures to fresh designs and heel heights,” she says. “The sky’s the limit, and we’re going for it with each new collection.”

How would you describe Vivaia’s overall design aesthetic? It’s a high-end aesthetic coupled with elite comfort. Our shoes are stylish, timeless and classic with a twist. We’ve spared nothing to craft shoes with great attention to detail, ensuring the right fit and flair for each style. You may see it in our simple and precise styling; we’re fans of Apple. Steve Jobs had such a unique and exacting process, and we love the care that Apple brings to everything they do. It’s the perfect balance between beauty and practicality.

EDITOR’S PICKS

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COMPLETE FABRICATIONS

Hemp and denim have these classic kicks covered.

earth, leaving a legacy of thoughtfulness and supporting sustainability at every turn. This elegant woman is also passionate about being chic and well put together. It’s why we offer footwear for every lifestyle.

Has the pandemic impacted your approach

to design? It’s forced us to strengthen supply chain partnerships, while remaining true to our values. More people than ever are paying attention to the relationships between nature and humanity. Women want to dress their best, but not have the environment pay the price. It’s why we are committed to offering exceptional quality and unwavering authenticity with regards to sustainable design. We’re passionate about giving every woman what they want and need in eco-friendly footwear.

Many say heels are not part of the so-called new normal. What is your response to

that? As many parts of the world return to the office, or strike a hybrid arrangement, we believe a great set of practical heels is a must-have. In addition, many women are dying to slip out of sweats and get dressed again. For those who aren’t, we have the cutest sneakers or slip-on sandals, too.

Where do you envision Vivaia in three years? As an eco-friendly lifestyle brand. Vivaia is full of dreamers who can’t wait to use what has worked so well with our footwear in any number of products. Stay tuned!

What was the best piece of design advice you ever received? Let design serve the essence of demand. Right now, women everywhere are demanding eco-friendly products that still serve their sense of personal style. That’s what we are achieving.

What do you love most about designing

shoes? Women’s shoes are like a signature. Often, they tell the world what kind of woman we are, what we’re doing and, now more than ever, what we care about. While it’s a huge challenge just to develop comfortable and stylish shoes, never mind eco-friendly aspects, I love that we’re accomplishing the impossible every day. It’s an endless pursuit of perfection, and we’re thrilled to be on the journey.