Best Sandals To Put Spring In Your Step: Gabrielle Alexandra
All photos: Gabrielle Alexandra
Just like a little black dress and good pair of (organic denim) jeans, when the sunshine season hits, we reach for sassy sandals. This season, we’re rolling out the beach towel for eco-chic versions that tread lightly on the planet. From tire-derived gladiators to birkies with a higher purpose, these sandals—though flat-footed—inspire a truly stiletto-sized carbon footprint. Plus, we scored more than $400 worth for our subscribers!
Who knew that you could transform discarded tires into feminine footwear? Designer Gabrielle Alexandra Yacoob made the connection while working in Peru, where sandals made entirely from tires––straps, soles, the whole nitty gritty—are common. A true eco-visionary, Gabrielle adapted the upcycling concept to her eponymous line of comfortable and fashionable sandals, which feature recycled-tire soles lined with eco-friendly leather and donate 10 percent of proceeds to the Mother Teresa Hospice in Peru.
We flipped for Gabrielle’s gray leopard print Boyfriend sandals. They feature an uber-flattering, above-the-ankle fit and drawstring close that edge them into bootie territory—yet still show enough skin to qualify them as sandals. But the Fanni Pedi, featuring a zipper pocket, gets our vote for the ultimate multitasker: No purse required, and you’re good to go for 20,000 miles without a blowout.
Gabrielle Alexandra Boyfriend Sandal ($79.99)
Want more? We found eco-friendly sandals that are upcycled, philanthropic, nature-loving and give shoes to kids who need them.
Kaleena Thompson is a regular contributor to Luxury Home Quarterly, Green Building + Design, Halogentv.com, Orlando Home & Leisure, and MARCH magazines, where she covers eco-friendly fashion, trends, sustainable design and architecture, and humanitarian and philanthropic efforts. Kaleena loves a high-heeled pump, enjoys a good read, and indulges her inner cupcake foodie.
