Guilt-free fashion? We’re in. Back before sustainability became a watchword, L’Exception was at the axis of the French fashion movement – supporting grassroots brands that promote planet-friendly and ethical manufacturing. At a time where many large footwear companies are moving mass production to Asia, there is still a small fraction of committed artisans that have vowed to keep things local. Innovating to ensure the smallest possible footprint, natural materials are making their comeback as footwear celebrates the old adage, ‘less is more’.

Celebrating a new style of shopping pioneered by a slow fashion philosophy, this growing community of brands is working smarter and harder to ensure production methods respect the highest ethical and ecological benchmarks. A backlash against the mass production that resulted in an array of headline-grabbing events across Asia, ‘conscious consumerism’ has made it into the mainstream – with a call for clearer labelling when it comes to the provenance of our products.

A strong example of sweatshop manufacturing, the trainer is at the centre of the debate. The essence of modern style, the humble sports shoe has made its way into every facet of modern living and stands as a semaphore for 21st-century style. Since 2016, even the most esteemed fashion houses have been offering their interpretation on the trainer, available in a plethora of shapes, styles, materials and models.

Working to create a wardrobe staple that ticks all the boxes when it comes to environmental and ethical impact, sustainable footwear brands are creating a network of designers, producers and artisans that excel industry standards – ensuring fair pay & safe working conditions for all of its employees and avoiding high pollutant products like plastics in the composition of its products.