We got a lot of flak for featuring non-vegan shoes on the site last month. And though we still entertain the argument that the environmental scale may tip in favor of wearing veggie-tanned, heavy-metal free leather (arguably a byproduct of the meat industry), over the petroleum-based materials favored by many low-priced, leather-free shoe lines, the absolutely oil-free Cri de Coeur makes us want to wear all vegan, all the time.
Because although the line eschews skins in favor of eco- and animal-friendly materials, it’s as haut as any leather line on the block—chrome free or not. Founded in 2007 by Gina Ferraraccio, Cri de Coeur—which means “cry from the heart” for those of you Francophobes—is out to change the face of footwear, one vegan shoe at a time.
Those London Sole demi-flats you’ve been lusting after? CdC does them in luxurious faux suede for $100 less. Going Grecian this year? Check out the Abigail sandal—t-strapped with a hot-pink ‘80s twist. Like your heels high? You’ll love the suede open-toes with the three-inch stacked heel.
But to transition us to fall—especially with (organic cotton, of course) tights—our vote this month goes to the Helena ($295), two-tone, cutout ankle bootie in midnight blue and black suede. Or maybe it goes to the Alexa ($260), an open-toed boot with cut-out sides, crafted in canvas with faux black patent accents.
It’s like going on a date with George Clooney and getting hit on by Robert Pattinson. Who could choose?
Luckily, you don’t have to decide, as we’re—surprise!—giving away one pair of Helena and one of Alexa this month. Enter to win, and you could take home a pair of one (thus justifying the purchase of the other).
Then your cry from the heart would be one of joy.
