Article of Vegan Interest About Jelly Shoes

On Monday (Aug 17), the New York Times ran an article by Jessica Michault titled, "The Reincarnation of the Jelly Shoe, With a Designer Flair." The article discusses the pervasiveness of jelly shoes in designers' shoe lines this summer, specifically mentioning Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, See by Chloé and Tory Burch. The comeback of jelly shoes is a blessing for vegans: finding cute and trendy footwear from mainstream designers that are vegan is practically impossible save a flip-flop or a sneaker here and there. But with the proliferation of jelly shoes, every vegan can wear designer shoes, provided the jellies are comfortable and she (or he) wants to designer-brand-herself (or himself). This summer, I have been wearing Tory Burch's jelly version of her famous Reva shoe (in navy blue), and Burberry's jelly thong sandal (in black).

I'm interested to see what designers create for the fall and winter. According to the article, it was the rise of Crocs that caused designers to launch into the jelly shoe arena. This winter, as it did last winter, Crocs will offer a variety of fleece (vegan!) lined Crocs appropriate to the colder weather (see picture). I'm not much of a fan of Crocs -- too wide for me; perhaps a few designers will create something to take the place of these Crocs.

Designer Vegan Deal: Amrita Singh Sample Sale

Today, already started, HauteLook is hosting a sample sale of Amrita Singh items. Of particular interest are the vegan shoes (sandals), clutches, and handbags. HauteLook is one of those invitation websites; if you need an invite, email the Professional Vegan at professionalvegan@gmail.com.

Reader Request: Vegan Sandals Similar To Jack Rogers' Navajo Sandals

A reader (I have readers!) commented (and they comment!) on a previous shoe post asking whether there is a vegan version of Jack Rogers' Navajo sandal (pictured left in the turquoise). Jack Rogers' sandals are made from leather, alas. I have seen them all over this summer, particularly Nordstrom, as the commenter referenced, and also have been intrigued by their simple feminine style.

Unfortunately, I haven't been able to locate a very similar vegan version. The best I can do is Rina Shah's thong with rivets (pictured right). Not exactly a perfect match . . . at all. It's made from man-made leather and, clearly, is decorated with rhinestone-ish rivets. At $55, it's a bit less expensive than the Jack Rogers' sandals.

Also not-so-similar are a variety of summer sandals from Madden Girl. First, there is the "Adaline" sandal. It is entirely man-made and comes in the pictured turquoise, pink, yellow, brown and black. $49.90; available here via Zappos. So similar I'm not quite sure why it has a different name is the "Bayleee" sandal. Also entirely man-made; it comes in turquoise, black, and yellow. Also $49.90; here. Third, Madden Girl makes a "Dandye" flip-flop faux leather sandal that is further away from the Jack Rogers' sandal, yet still seems tangentially similar in my mind. Also available in a variety of colors; also $49.90; available here.

Finally, the only way these Madden Girl "Bajjaa" sandals are like the Jack Rogers' sandal is that they are vaguely Native American themed, but I thought I would include them. They are available in the pictured black (which I like most because of the purple accents), brown, and white. Also vegan (obviously); also $49.90; also available through Zappos -- here.

Vegan on the Weekend: Flip-Flops

I am going to Florida in a few days for a mini-break. I'm just starting to think about packing . . . of course, I've already thrown a couple pairs of flip-flops into my bag. Accordingly, I thought I'd point out a few of my favorite flip-flops this season:

My absolutely favorite of all time is Reef's Ginger sandal (pictured left in the taupe/white color combo that I own): woven polyester strap that doesn't rub; "eva" outsole which lasts for miles and miles and slowly conforms to your feet; able to go in the water -- and float in the water for a bit when they fall off -- the perfect flip-flop. $19.99; buy them online here.

I also have a pair of Tory Burch flip-flops -- last year's version -- which come in a standard version and a wedge version this year, both in a variety of colors and patterns. The sandals remind me of Havanas; they have the similar gripping power and are made from similar gentle rubber. The standard version is $45 and the wedge is $55. Find all the versions via this link.

To replace the leather Rainbow flip-flops currently in my collection (these) and currently so worn down that I slip and fall when they hit sand, I very recently purchased a pair of Rainbow's hemp flip-flops with rubber soles in the pictured brown with narrow straps and the single layer arch support. I got them at the Rainbow store in Soho for 25% of their regular price of $40 (so, for $30). Find the hemp version here.

Finally, I really like the Simple "Cushee" sandals, but couldn't find them to try them on "in-person" during my latest shopping adventures. The sandals come in seven different color combinations; my favorite is the "rabbit" pictured left. They are made from a hemp upper, a "eva" topsole and midsole, and a combination of rubber an recycled pulp paper bottom. $28; here.

Thursday's Work Appropriate Clothing Item: White House Black Market Plaid Pants

On super sale! These black/cream plaid pants come in every size, but only in a 29.5" inseam, which, I know, is too short for some people, possibly including me, but the sale price is too good not to post: $29.99 (originally $108)! Made from polyester, viscose, and spandex. They are on sale via White House Black Market's website here.

Also, one of my friends mentioned that she wants a handbag with chain handles. I'm not sure her specifications, but thought I would note White House Black Market's "Status Regency Print Satchel," which is made from polyester and pvc (faux patent leather) and features a convertible single or double chain drop. Originally $68, on sale for $29.99. Find it here.

In addition to the handbag, my friend also is looking for sandals with a heel, but not too high a heel. As to this request, as it seems I am on a roll, I thought I would mention White House Black Market's "Triple Ring Sandal," which is available in select sizes -- most importantly, including hers. Made from synthetic upper and sole (same faux patent leather), they feature a 2.25" heel. I've never owned shoes from White House Black Market, so cannot speak to their comfort, but these definitely look cute! Originally $58, they are on sale for $29.99. Find them here.

Vegan on the Weekend: Jellies

When I first inventoried my shoes after committing to maintaining a vegan lifestyle, I thought that my Stuart Weitzman clear jelly shoes with little crystals on their fronts were vegan . . . but, alas, they are not. The jelly shoes are decorated with a silver bow -- that I'm almost positive is made from leather -- and the footbed is definitely leather. Eeek. Regardless, I have had them for almost three years (essentially pre-pre-vegan) and they are super comfortable and great to wear during weddings when my feet hurt after dancing . . . so, I am keeping them until they fall apart. The closest items Stuart Weitzman currently has for sale are its jelly thong sandals, which still incorporate leather, and look nothing like my shoes. If you're intrigued, you can check them out here. And, even better, you can find a version of mine on Zappos . . . here (pictured).

But, because of the jelly trend, there are a number of cute jelly shoes that don't incorporate leather (and, of course, like the Stuart Weitzman's, some that do). My favorite is Burberry's jelly thongs. They come in 4 colors: white, citrine (lightish green), plum, and black (pictured -- I really do pick black 95% of the time if the option is present). 100% rubber! They are $125 -- and are available online at Burberry and Nordstrom.

Very similar to Burberry's t-strap jelly thongs are Jimmy Choo's jelly thong sandals. Made from rubber upper, lining, and sole. They come in the pictured "caramel leopard" and "black zebra" (both via Nordstrom). They are $175 -- which, to me, seems a bit over the top for jelly thongs.

There also is Tod's version of the Burberry and Jimmy Choo . . . which is available online through Neiman Marcus and through its website. The t-strap jellies come in white, clear, red, and black, and seem to be made entirely of rubber. However, they boast a little tassel tie-thing at the top of the t-strap that I fear may be made from leather. They are also $175.

More in the traditional style of jelly shoe, rather than thong or flip-flop, is Tory Burch's jelly version of the "Reva" logo ballet flat. The jelly version comes in purple (pictured), parrot pink, medium navy, equestrian orange, and bright yellow. They are made entirely from rubber. I've seen the jellies in person, but did not try them on. They look very cute; and the three holes as vents near the inside arch are especially endearing. I assume they are either are very comfortable or skin-cutting and squeaky. At $95, they are the least expensive designer option.

Finally, Givenchy's "Lace-Up Jelly" qualifies as a jelly . . . and it is quite an intriguing twist on the jelly. I think the picture says it all. There is a hidden 1" wedge heel. Though they are made from rubber, I fear that the laces could be leather . . . something to check in-store. They come in the pictured off-white and black. $170; available via Saks here.

Designer Vegan Deal: Nordstrom Shoe Clearance

Hundreds (literally - about 1,000 pairs) of shoes of are on sale during Nordstrom's shoe clearance. I've picked out most of the vegan items for women that are available in more than one size, though you may want to scroll through and focus on the sneakers and winter boots. I've omitted some vegan items that, to me, aren't appropriate past 21-years-old. For convenience, I've listed them below with minimal description and commentary.

Report "Sammi" Thong Sandal: black, red, silver, teal, or white faux patent with synthetic lining and rubber sole; originally $39.95, now $22.90 (40% off); here.

Report "Sasha" Sandal (pictured in green): black, white, green, or yellow faux patent with synthetic lining and rubber sole; originally $39.95, now $22.90 (40% off); here.

Helly Hansen "Equipe" Boot: black or white with synthetic upper, faux fur lining, and rubber sole; originally $169.95, now $99.90 (40% off); here.

Tribeca "Be Happy" Sandal: black, copper, or pewter synthetic upper and lining with rubber sole; originally $49.95, now $28.90 (40% off); here.

Sperry Top-Sider "Pelican: Tall Rain Boot: black and grey paisley combination in rubber; originally $59.95, now $34.90 (40% off); here.

Chinese Laundry "Shameless" Sandal: black or mink satin upper with synthetic lining and sole; originally $59.95, now $34.90 (40% off); here.

J. Reneé "Kipp" Pump (pictured): black, red, purple combo, black, mazelwood combo, or black, pewter combo made from synthetic materials with synthetic lining and sole; originally $74.95, now $36.90 (50% off); here.

Vegan on the Weekend: Summer Shoes

Though it might "slush" on the East Coast this weekend, the stores have their summer shoes out in full swing -- and I can't stop browsing them online. Here are a few of my favorites:

Rampage "Dania": simple and classic thong sandal; great with jeans and with summer skirts; and they have a perfect, walkable 1.5" heel. They come in the pictured black and silver metallic. 100% man-made materials. $40 through Piperlime (here -- and free shipping and returns!).

Unisa "Coco": another classic summer sandal, though slightly dressed-up with the metal chain links on the t-strap. Again, great with jeans, shorts, and perhaps a casual skirt. Based on the buyer comments, they are perfect for walking: they have a 1" heel. Made from cork, rubber, and a synthetic upper (plus the metal) -- completely vegan! They come in the pictured white and black. $59 through Piperlime (here -- and, again, free shipping and returns!).

Naturalizer "Sistine": wedges are hot this summer; unfortunately most incorporate leather (boo). But not this espadrille sandal style! The sandal has a fabric (linen) upper and a woven wrapped 2" wedge heel. The sandal comes in the pictured natural, black, brown, coral, and an interesting floral with an off-white base that is way too flowery in my opinion (notice the floral inside the pictured sandal -- imagine that all over the outside). All colors are available on Naturalizer's website for $60 (here). Some useful codes: 20% off entire order: PSB29; $10 off order: ECK28. Also, Piperlime has the black version on its website for $55 (here); the different in price is baffling. As an aside, I tried these on in the Naturalizer store; I was 1/2 size smaller than my normal shoe size -- so, beware.

Naturalizer "Sensitive": an interesting take on the above wedge sandal. I'm not much into slides, but I appreciate the summery colors incorporated into this one. It comes in the pictured blue stripe satin and a similar red stripe satin. The sandal has a fabric upper and the same woven wrapped 2" wedge heel. Both colors are available on Naturalizer's website for $60 (here).

Finally, I'm absolutely, completely, totally coveting JCrew's unisex "Jack Purcell sneakers." They come in a distressed version (pictured in the blue; also comes in white) and a broken-in-chino version (comes in pale surplus and faded black). 100% cotton. Each pair is $65. I think I would get the blue distressed version, though I vacillate between that and the pale surplus broken-in-chino version or possibly the white distressed -- ahhh! So many I like! Find the distressed version here and the broken-in-chino version here. The sneakers pair nicely with the very large Madakat tote (100% cotton canvas, $68; here).