Nicholas Kirkwood’s first foray into sustainable shoes

“From making our supply chain more environmentally responsible to celebrating the meticulous work of local artisans at our Italian factory, this collection marks an important step in our journey towards mindful design,” says Nicholas Kirkwood of his latest launch – an exclusive capsule collection of consciously crafted Beya block-heeled mules. The go-to designer for beautiful shoes that are modern and irreverent, innovation is at the core of the London-based designer’s ethos. Since launching his eponymous brand in 2005, Kirkwood has strived to subvert expectations and present a new kind of aesthetic luxury in footwear. His instantly recognizable shoes are defined by daring innovation in the use of unconventional materials and techniques that combine high craft and tradition with cutting-edge technology. It is only natural, then, that the designer has taken a new step into the world of conscious fashion with a new capsule collection for NET-A-PORTER.

The brand’s signature Beya silhouette has been updated into a new heeled mule for the collection, comprising five different colorways: tan, black, white, sand and champagne. The upper of the mules is made using treated Bottalato leather, while the shoe lining has been tanned with rhubarb roots – an organic and environmentally mindful alternative to conventional chrome tanning. Manufactured in accordance with the strict guidelines of the International Association of Natural Textile Industry, this rhubarb leather is rated as one of the most innovative materials on the market. “Material innovation means the fashion industry can minimize its environmental impact,” explains Kirkwood. “We are proud to be a part of the positive movement that contributes to a better future.” In addition, the sole of the mules is made from composite recycled leather, while the insole is created using fully recycled carton cardboard from a company that promotes responsible forest management, assessed by Forests For All Forever.

A piece that is not only a future classic but has sustainability at its core, the new Beya is the season’s best investment.