Cri di Coeur Footwear Is Faux Real

Vegan footwear is getting a major fashion injection this season. There's Stella McCartney, Natalie Portman for té casan, and now Cri de Coeur, a line of animal- and fashion-friendly shoes from Parsons alum Gina Ferraraccio. And she didn't just stop at using 100% vegan materials like microfiber, faux leather and rubber composite soles—the company also makes a more concrete commitment to change. For every pair of shoes bought, Cri de Coeur sponsors a tree planting; the shoes are produced at factories in Europe that work within low-waste and pollution constraints; unavoidable carbon emissions are offset in partnership with Thecarbonfund.org; and the website uses wind-powered hosting.

As for the shoes, there's not a hint of hippie in any of the six initial styles—though we're definitely seeing a little hipster in the Scout, a sueded, microfiber beige bootie that's the perfect trans-seasonal addition to your wardrobe. Other hits include the Sierra, a navy, peep-toe sandal with brown elastic band, and the Kate, a canvas t-strap sandal that could easily fit this season's gladiator-esque bill. We've also gotten wind of the Fall 2008 looks, and are keen on a pair of ruched booties and mock-croc ankle strap heels. Now when someone asks whether those patent leather boots are real, you can proudly say they're faux.

Cri de Coeur shoes are available at a variety of locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, and online at ravinstyle.com, check the website for store locations.

—Meredith Fisher