Bhava is Likely a Fully Vegan Brand

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Brand Highlights

Founded in 2012 by designer Francisca Pineda, a graduate of Parsons School of Design with almost two decades of experience working as a fashion designer, Bhava is an innovative women's footwear brand focused on the health of animals, the environment, footwear artisans, and consumers.

About Bhava Vegan Footwear

"At Bhava, we do not believe in the use of leather. We  have always been and will always be an animal free company. In addition, we believe a truly compassionate approach to design needs to go beyond using leather alternatives to include the environment, working conditions, and finally to protect you, our loyal supporters, and of course your feet." - Bhava Founder Francisca Pineda

Is Bhava footwear intentionally vegan?

Bhava appears to be an intentionally vegan brand, rather than one that uses vegan materials out of convenience, or for other reasons. They believe that animals are the main victim of the fashion industry, and we agree.

Are Bhava shoes eco-friendly/sustainable?

Bhava certainly has the well-being of the planet top-of-mind when creating their designs. By incorporating a mix of natural, organic and recycled materials into their footwear, Bhava footwear is quite eco-friendly.

Does Bhava use green shipping methods?

It's unclear from their website if Bhava uses net-zero or negative emissions shipping partners, either domestically or internationally. We have asked them for clarification and are currently awaiting reply.

Does Bhava use eco-friendly packaging?

It's unclear from their website if Bhava uses recycled, recyclable, compostable, or other forms of eco-friendly and sustainable packaging. We have asked them for details regarding the materials they use for packaging, and are currently awaiting reply.

Are Bhava shoes and boots recyclable or compostable?

It’s unclear from the information available on their website if Bhava footwear is recyclable or compostable. We have asked for clarification from the Bhava team and are currently awaiting reply.

How should I dispose of my worn out Bhava shoes?

We have asked the Bhava team if they currently have, or are developing, a shoe recycling program, and are awaiting reply. In the meantime, we recommend either trying to have them repaired (their soles are constructed for easy repair), donating them to someone in need, or taking them to a clothing recycling depot (if available in your city), which can strip them down to their recyclable components.

Does Bhava promote ‘slow fashion’ or a ‘circular economy’?

Bhava appears to employ several elements of a circular economy, such as incorporating natural, organic and recycled materials; creating easy-to-repair soles; and employing fair labour. In addition, Bhava's founder Francisca taught Ethical Fashion and Sustainable Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York.

Where can I buy Bhava footwear?

The Bhava team has informed us that for the time being their shoes, boots and sandals can only be purchased from their website.

Do Bhava shoes ever go on sale?

Yes - there’s a “Sale” section of their website that features a chance to get the last few pairs of their discontinued styles.

What materials are used to make Bhava shoes?

Bhava claims to source "the highest quality artisan, organic, recycled and cruelty free components, from organic cotton linings, to hand painted embossed cork, and premium recycled microfibers" for their shoes, boots and sandals. It's important to note that their Italian vegan leather does not contain aromatic amines, PCP, formaldehyde, PVC, phthalates, azo-dyes, or chrome.

Are Bhava shoes ethically made?

Some Bhava shoes are made in Alicante, Spain, while others are made in Mumbai. Bhava's labourers in Spain are protected by the stringent labour laws of the European Union, which also include strong health and safety regulations. With regard to their Mumbai operations, it's difficult as an outside, non-certifying party to verify as to whether or not Bhave ensures its factory enforces all international and local labour laws to provide a safe and fair working environment for their workers. According to the Bhava team however, they have personally vetted the working conditions of their manufacturing partners, and their brand ethos states that they are opposed to cheap labour and bad working conditions, and that they stand to to protect the health of the workers.

Is Bhava a charitable company?

Bhava has informed us that at this time they do not participate in any charitable initiatives, and did not inform us of any such plans for the future.

Bhava Product Range

Focused on the female aesthetic, Bhava makes boots, shoes, flats , clogs and sandals in a wide variety of styles at an upper-mid price point. Many of their designs have a timeless, elegant and professional style, while others take historical influence or include tasteful and subtle accents.