Cover These local footwear brands are as stylish as they are sustainable (Photo: Instagram / @_catsua, @munimuni.studio, @marquinashoemaker; stylised with Canva)
These local footwear brands are as stylish as they are sustainable (Photo: Instagram / @_catsua, @munimuni.studio, @marquinashoemaker; stylised with Canva)
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A good pair of shoes can take you a long way. Check out these local footwear brands that are as stylish as they are sustainable
In this day and age, it’s a good thing that we’re turning to sustainable options when it comes to footwear. We like shoes that are comfortable, stylish, and durable. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to show support for our small local businesses. These brands prioritise quality above all while using eco-friendly and ethical practices to ensure we’re both environmentally conscious and looking our best at the same time. Who says we can’t shift to sustainable fashion without compromising on style?
Whether you’re window shopping at the mall or taking a leisurely stroll down the beach, there are many sustainable options for every taste.
More from Tatler: Sapatero Manila recognised as one of the best shoemakers in the 2024 World Championships of Shoemaking
1. Catsua
Founded by shoemaker Catrina Suarez, Catsua showcases the work of Cebuano artisans with a quirky, sleek design. Their Una Binakol platform sandals are eye-catching, fusing Japanese aesthetics with traditional Ilokano and Itneg designs.
2. Andanté
Built on an emphasis on durability, the creators behind Andanté pride themselves on using genuine leather instead of faux for long-term wear. Their pieces, from staple loafers to delicate ballet flats, are true classics, described as “classic pieces for the modern wardrobe.”
3. Munimuni Studio
Munimuni Studio (whose name derives from the Filipino word meaning to reflect or ponder) provides opportunities to local artisan communities, granting them a sustainable income. Their products are handmade with traditional techniques and are manufactured in small batches with eco-friendly materials.
4. Palengke
With locally produced footwear and a vibrant palette, Palengke devotes itself to celebrating cultural icons of modern-day Filipino culture. Take their Balikbayan Bag, for example, a box-shaped satchel reminiscent of a Filipino symbol for travel.
5. Jos Mundo
Jos Mundo's Marikina-made shoes take sustainable craftsmanship to another level, resulting in quality footwear without sacrificing style. For example, the lengthy process of creating one of their signature wooden heels takes a minimum of 10 days, while stocks depend on what is already available from their suppliers.
6. Cora & Bear
Cora & Bear offers contemporary, handmade footwear made using experimental materials. The brand uses genuine leather for quality and durability and works with a family-owned brand based in the shoe capital of Marikina, offering small-batch, everyday creations.
7. Lakat
Homeware brand Lakat's comfortable, quality sneakers come in many colour ways and are crafted by local artisans using pineapple cotton blend fibres. They are an animal-friendly alternative to those averse to typical leather.
Read more: Wearable Art: Lakat Shoes joins forces with artists Garapata, Doktor Karayom, and Lilianna Manahan
8. Marquina
Marquina supports local craftsmen while delivering style, durability, and even cultural value. As its name implies, the brand is based in Marikina, and its mission is an ode to traditional Philippine shoemaking practices.
9. Sebastian & Savannah
Founded by former fashion student Kat Padilla, Sebastian & Savannah is committed to preserving traditional techniques suited for every occasion, focusing on comfort while committing to style.
As Padilla states, “We believe that every step should be taken in style, without compromising on comfort or quality.”
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About
Julianna has been interested in leading a literary life since she first read Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess at eight. Before working with Tatler, she was an archive intern at The Center for Fiction in Brooklyn, New York. She is a textbook Pisces who devotes most of her spare time to her crochet projects, watching classic films, and going through her never-ending pile of unread books. She studied creative writing, global literature and art history at Sarah Lawrence College, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2022. Toni Morrison, Nora Ephron, Clarice Lispector and Jia Tolentino are among her all-time favourite writers.
Work
Julianna writes about fashion, beauty, sustainability, and the arts. She is always keen on conducting interviews with talented women who are changing the game in their respective fields.
For event invites and story leads, hit her up at julianna.cabili@tatlerasia.com
