Hey there, shoe lovers! If you‘re anything like me, you‘re always on the hunt for the perfect pair of kicks that combine style, comfort, and quality. But what if I told you there‘s a brand out there that not only ticks all those boxes but also prioritizes sustainability and ethical production? Let me introduce you to my latest obsession: Alohas shoes.
What is Alohas?
Alohas is a forward-thinking footwear brand that‘s shaking up the fashion industry with its innovative approach to shoemaking. Founded in 2015 by visionary entrepreneur Alejandro Porras, Alohas is on a mission to create beautiful, high-quality shoes while minimizing its environmental impact.
Based in sunny Honolulu, Hawaii (hence the name!), Alohas draws inspiration from the islands‘ laidback vibe and natural beauty. But don‘t let the relaxed aesthetic fool you – these shoes are crafted with the utmost attention to detail and quality. Each pair is handmade in Spain by skilled artisans using sustainable materials like Leather Working Group Certified Leather and vegan leather made from recycled plastic and plant-based fibers.
What really sets Alohas apart is their unique on-demand business model. Instead of mass-producing shoes that may end up in landfills, Alohas only makes shoes that customers have pre-ordered. This reduces waste and ensures that every pair of Alohas is cherished and worn. Plus, it allows the brand to offer high-quality shoes at a more accessible price point – a win-win for your wardrobe and your wallet!
My Alohas Experience
I first discovered Alohas through a fashion blogger I follow on Instagram. She raved about their cute and comfy espadrilles, so I decided to check out the brand for myself. Let me tell you, it was love at first scroll! The Alohas website is a treasure trove of gorgeous, on-trend shoes in a variety of styles, from sandals and flats to heels and boots.
What immediately impressed me was the brand‘s transparency about their materials and production processes. They provide detailed information about the sustainability of each shoe, so you know exactly what you‘re getting and can feel good about your purchase.
I ended up ordering a pair of the Emma Espadrille Flats in tan suede, and I couldn‘t be happier with them! The quality is amazing – the suede is buttery soft, and the jute sole is sturdy yet flexible. I love that they‘re versatile enough to dress up or down, and they‘ve become my go-to shoes for everything from running errands to meeting friends for brunch.
Since then, I‘ve added a few more Alohas to my collection, including the Harper Leather Sandals and the Marina Vegan Leather Mules. Each pair has exceeded my expectations in terms of style, comfort, and craftsmanship. I can honestly say that Alohas has converted me into a loyal fan for life!
Alohas Best-Sellers: A Closer Look
Curious about what other Alohas fans are loving? Here‘s a rundown of some of the brand‘s most popular and raved-about styles, along with my personal take on each one.
The Emma Espadrille Flats
As I mentioned, the Emma Espadrille Flats were my first Alohas purchase, and they remain one of my all-time favorite pairs. They‘re the perfect summer shoe – lightweight, breathable, and oh-so-cute. The jute sole adds a rustic touch, while the suede upper feels luxurious against your skin. I love that they come in a rainbow of colors, from classic neutrals to pop-of-color brights.
The Harper Leather Sandals
If you‘re looking for a chic and comfortable sandal that you can wear all day long, look no further than the Harper Leather Sandals. These beauties feature a wide, cushioned strap and a molded footbed that cradles your feet with every step. The vegetable-tanned leather is soft and supple, and the subtle gold hardware adds a touch of elegance. I have them in both black and tan, and I reach for them constantly during the warmer months.
The Marina Vegan Leather Mules
For a sleek and modern take on the classic mule, check out the Marina Vegan Leather Mules. Made from high-quality vegan leather that looks and feels just like the real thing, these shoes are proof that you don‘t need animal products to achieve high style. The pointed toe and low heel create an elongating effect, while the backless design makes them easy to slip on and off. I love wearing mine with cropped jeans and a blazer for a polished yet effortless look.
The Olivia Recycled Canvas Sneakers
Sneakerheads, rejoice! The Olivia Recycled Canvas Sneakers are the eco-friendly answer to your classic white kick cravings. Made from a blend of organic cotton and recycled plastic bottles, these sneakers are as sustainable as they are stylish. The chunky sole gives them a cool, retro vibe, while the cushy insole keeps your feet happy all day long. I‘ve been living in mine on weekends, paired with everything from sundresses to leggings.
What Customers are Saying
Don‘t just take my word for it – Alohas has amassed a devoted following of fans who rave about the brand‘s style, quality, and sustainability. Here‘s what a few happy customers had to say:
"I cannot say enough good things about Alohas! The shoes are beautiful, well-made, and so comfortable. I love that they‘re eco-friendly and ethically produced, too. I‘ll definitely be buying more pairs in the future!" – Emily, 28
"I was a bit skeptical about the on-demand model at first, but it was totally worth the wait. My Alohas sandals are my new go-to shoes for summer. They go with everything and are holding up great." – Rachel, 35
"As someone with hard-to-fit feet, I‘m always nervous about buying shoes online. But Alohas‘ size guide was spot-on, and their customer service team was super helpful when I had questions. My mules fit like a dream!" – Lauren, 42
Alohas also has impressive customer ratings on various review platforms:
- 4.8/5 stars on Trustpilot (based on 1,500+ reviews)
- 4.7/5 stars on Facebook (based on 200+ reviews)
- 4.9/5 stars on Google (based on 100+ reviews)
And the brand‘s popularity is only growing. According to Alohas‘ 2021 impact report, they sold over 100,000 pairs of shoes last year, a 50% increase from the previous year. They also donated over $50,000 to various environmental and social causes, further cementing their commitment to making a positive impact.
Caring for Your Alohas
So, you‘ve taken the plunge and ordered your first pair of Alohas (or maybe your second or third!). Here are some tips for keeping your sustainable shoes looking and feeling their best:
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Protect them before wearing: Before exposing your Alohas to the elements, be sure to treat them with a waterproofing spray designed for their specific material (leather, suede, canvas, etc.). This will help repel stains and extend their lifespan.
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Clean them regularly: After each wear, gently brush off any dirt or debris with a soft-bristled brush. For tougher stains, use a damp cloth and a mild cleanser specifically formulated for the shoe material.
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Store them properly: When you‘re not wearing your Alohas, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees or stuff them with newspaper to help maintain their shape.
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Repair, don‘t replace: If your Alohas start to show signs of wear, consider taking them to a cobbler for repairs before buying a new pair. This extends their life and reduces waste.
By following these simple care tips, your Alohas will stay looking fabulous for seasons to come!
The Bottom Line
In a world of fast fashion and disposable trends, Alohas is a breath of fresh air. This brand proves that you don‘t have to sacrifice style for sustainability or quality for affordability. By choosing Alohas, you‘re not only investing in beautiful, well-crafted shoes that will stand the test of time – you‘re also supporting a company that‘s making a real difference in the fashion industry and beyond.
As someone who‘s tried and fallen in love with multiple pairs of Alohas, I can wholeheartedly recommend this brand to anyone looking to step up their shoe game while treading more lightly on the planet. Trust me, once you go Alohas, you‘ll never go back!
So what are you waiting for? Head over to the Alohas website and start browsing their dreamy collection of sustainable shoes. Your feet (and your conscience) will thank you. Happy shopping!
