Estela Verde claims “at no time do we use skin or animal derivatives (not even in the glue!).” Although they do not currently advertise any certification to verify their vegan status (we are waiting for a response from them regarding whether or not they are in the process of becoming certified), avoiding animal-derived materials is clearly built into the ethos of the brand.
Brand Highlights
"Our vision is to promote environmental and social sustainability in fashion to make it a business that does not harm the planet or animals." - Estela Verde
- Founded in 2020
- Fair labour
- Handmade in Spain
- Eco-friendly materials
- Uses local materials
- Recycled packaging
About Estela Verde
Estela Verde was founded in 2020 in the midst of a global pandemic by a pair of sneakerheads and a manufacturer and modeller with years of experience in footwear.
Is Estela Verde intentionally vegan?
Estela Verde appears to be an intentionally vegan brand, rather than one that uses vegan materials out of convenience, or for other reasons. They aim to "promote environmental and social sustainability in fashion to make it a business that does not harm the planet or animals."What materials are used to make Estela Verde shoes?
The fabric used in the inner lining of the shoes and in the details of the backpacks is a GRS certified recycled microfiber. The outer fabric of the shoes and backpacks is Global Recycle Standard (GRS), GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified organic cotton. The soles are made of various materials, which may include wood and recycled cork, or algal blooms, among other materials.Are Estela Verde shoes eco-friendly/sustainable?
Given that Estela Verde shoes are composed mainly of organic and recycled materials, and are handmade in Spain with locally sourced materials, it's safe to say that the shoes themselves are quite eco-friendly. We have reached out to Estela Verde for further details with regard to their sustainability efforts, such as if their shoes are produced or shipped in an eco-friendly manner (climate/carbon neutral), and are awaiting reply.Does Estela Verde use green shipping methods?
It's unclear from their website if Estela Verde uses net-zero or negative emissions shipping partners, either domestically or internationally. We have asked them for clarification, and are currently awaiting reply.Does Estela Verde use eco-friendly packaging?
Yes - according to Estela Verde, their shoes and backpacks are shipped in a recycled cardboard box.Are Estela Verde shoes recyclable or compostable?
It’s unclear from the information available on their website if Estela Verde’s shoes are recyclable or compostable. We have asked for clarification from the Estela Verde team, and are currently awaiting reply.How should I dispose of my worn out Estela Verde shoes?
We have asked the Estela Verde 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, 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.Where can I buy Estela Verde shoes?
For the time being it looks like Estela Verde shoes can only be purchased from their website, or from their social channels. We've asked them if they have plans to work with retailers, and are currently awaiting reply.Do Estela Verde shoes ever go on sale?
We haven’t noticed any sales for Estela Verde shoes when visiting their site and perusing their social channels. Currently, their newsletter does not offer a discount code when subscribing to it.Are Estela Verde shoes ethically made?
Yes! Estela Verde shoes are handcrafted in Spain, which means their labourers are protected by the stringent labour laws of the European Union, which also include strong health and safety regulations.Does Estela Verde promote ‘slow fashion’ or a ‘circular economy’?
Estela Verde appears to incorporate several elements of a circular economy/slow fashion model, such as employing fair labour, using organic and recycled materials, and using recycled shipping materials.Is Estela Verde a charitable company?
We have asked the Estela Verde team about any charitable initiatives they're involved with (if any), and are currently awaiting reply, as there is no such information available on their website.Related Brands
Estela Verde Product Range
Estela Verde makes men's and women's sneakers and casual shoes (as well as ankle boots for women) in timeless styles, with a retro touch. Their colours are bold and earthy, inspired by the Mediterranean Sea.