Put Your Best Foot Forward With These Shoe Launches

by Odessa Paloma Parker February 24, 2021

Ready to get a leg up on your look? February has presented a wealth of new footwear options from the first sneaker offering by Toronto-based brand Zvelle to Native’s “algae-infused” shoes. Plus, you can currently pre-order the Fall 2021 boot collaboration between Anna Sui and Vancouver’s John Fluevog. There’s never been a better time to get your kicks!

Zvelle introduced a new sneaker called Rayna

zvelle sneaker — Photography courtesy of Zvelle

Coming hot off the heels of several other launches in the last year, Toronto-based footwear and accessory brand Zvelle has dropped its first sneaker, which comes in eight colourways from metallic to monochromatic and more. The Rayna’s look is a mix between a charming ballet flat and a soft sporty ’70s running shoe — an ideal combo for anyone whose on-the-go look needs a lift these days. The handcrafted-in-Italy styles are limited run (pardon the pun), so make your move fast.

A capsule offering from Sporty & Rich and Clarks Originals is now available

sporty rich clarks — Photography courtesy of Sporty & Rich

For its first footwear collaboration, Sporty & Rich — the athleisure label launched by Canadian creative Emily Oberg — has teamed up with British brand Clarks Originals. Three versions of Clarks’s classic Wallabee shoe are offered up in shades of merlot, cream and pastel blue; hues sure to put a spring in your step. The styles are made by a German tannery that works with the reforestation-focused organization, the Kikonda Forest Project, and feature a rubber sole made from a renewable source.

“To me, the Wallabee embodies the sort of genderless image that I always try to incorporate into Sporty & Rich’s aesthetic,” Oberg said in a press release about the launch. “It perfectly ties together elegance and casual styles — not a dress shoe, but not quite a sneaker either. And the history of the shoe within ’90s culture has also made it a versatile icon to all different groups of people.”

Cougar debuted a range of pieces boasting a design by Jill Malek

cougar jill malek — Photography courtesy of Cougar

Home décor designer Jill Malek has lent her artful, minimalistic style to an array of Cougar’s popular Kensington Chelsea rain boots. The pattern uses reflective details meant to capture the essence of “rain catching the light,” transforming the boot’s utilitarian vibe into something playfully elevated. “Consistently inspired by moving forms in nature, it is my mission to create pieces that promote a sense of calm and fluidity in our hectic world,” Malek said in a statement about the collaboration. “Partnering with Cougar has enabled me to bring the story of translucent rain to their amazing rain boot, while also allowing me to experiment with their new and innovative materials.”

The Fall 2021 Anna Sui x John Fluevog collab is available for pre-order

anna sui john fluevog — Photography courtesy of John Fluevog

If you caught the digital launch of Anna Sui’s Fall 2021 collection during NYFW last week, you may have noticed she’s continuing her work with Canadian brand John Fluevog. And for the first time, fans of the fantastical synergy between Fluevog and Sui are able to pre-order select pieces from the collection. In this case, the Odlum brogued Chelsea boot — a slip-on style that comes in two colours of a charming berry and floral motif. Pick your pair now for expected delivery in May (who doesn’t love something to look forward to these days?), and get the extra satisfaction of knowing 10% of sales will go to The Bowery Mission, an organization close to Sui’s heart.

Native Shoes dropped more styles made with repurposed algae

native bloom algea shoes — Photography courtesy of Native Shoes

Speaking to its “goal of giving 100% of shoes an end of life solution by 2023,” Vancouver’s Native Shoes just relaunched its selection of Jefferson Bloom Archive pieces in ocean-inspired colours. Fitting, as they’re made with material that uses Rise by Bloom technology; according to a press release, the process removes toxic algae from waterways and this harvested matter is then “fused” into the upper of the shoes.

Vans and Opening Ceremony have partnered on their first global collection

For their new capsule collection with Vans, Opening Ceremony founders Humberto Leon and Carol Lim have created interpretations of the streetwear brand’s iconic checkerboard motif. You’ll find a tactile take in the offering’s two quilted sneakers in addition to leopard and snake-print styles. The collection also includes apparel and accessories, so indulge in wearing a head-to-toe look if you dare.

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