In this episode of D Sustainability Issue, I speak with Dessie about founding and managing a sustainable footwear brand. We dive into how ESSEN has taken a sustainable approach throughout the entire production process - from the choice of raw materials for our shoes, the production factories, and the packaging but also the benefits of pricing for a direct-to-consumer shoe brand, and the effects of the current COVID crisis has on the business.

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ESSEN was launched as a response to the fast-fashion industry and the brand quickly learnt that, in order to produce stylish shoes with a low environmental impact, it needed to step away from the traditional format of seasons and continually changing trends. All of ESSEN's pieces are produced in small batches within its factories in timeless colour palettes that never go out of style, often via pre-order to minimise waste and overproduction.

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ESSEN is derived from the word "essential", and designer Marre Muijs has built her collection around timeless, comfortable and ethically made footwear. Her shoes are handmade in small production lines using neutral colours and the best quality leathers for wearable everyday must-haves, while on-demand production means they are only made when an order is placed, minimising waste and overproduction. Read More

Sustainable fashion suggests the choice of eco-friendly, nature-conscious and ethical summer sandals. The most beautiful 2020 summer sandals? It is easy to answer “eco-friendly models” considering the widespread interest in sustainable and ethical fashion. ESSEN THE LABEL is based in Melbourne, Australia, but produced in the Marche region, in the heart of the shoemaking district that has been producing footwear since the early twentieth century. Each sandal is produced in neutral colours and made to order, to avoid any waste.

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Flat mock-croc Chelsea boots, glove-fit ballet pumps and chunky ankle-strap sandals - all of which are big for S/S'20 - are part of ESSEN's pared back designs. Collections are designed with a small carbon footprint in mind. Its new styles are produced through a pre-order model, so they're only made when ordered, thereby avoiding overproduction. 

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Thanks to the rise in cultural awareness when it comes to all things sustainable, the supply is increasing in order to fit the demand. But whilst we seem to be forever hearing of new fashion labels making waves in the field, it can be trickier for the footwear market to break such moulds.

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Our designs are inspired by the modern woman’s day-to-day realities. We believe that what a woman wears will have a direct impact on how she feels. Shoes carry us, add height, alter posture and bolster confidence. They transform a woman in a way that few other items of clothing can. Our shoes are hardworking classics that are aesthetically beautiful, supremely comfortable and ethically made. They allow women to move seamlessly and confidently through their day, without compromising on style, comfort and craftsmanship.

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