Sustainable Knitted Shoes: VIVAIA Review
I’ve recently added a couple pairs of VIVAIA shoes to my wardrobe, given them a thorough wear test in various occasions and weather, and now feel fully prepared to share my review with you all. In my recent video, Minimal Autumn Outfits ft. Vivaia , I shared some ways that I’m styling them for Autumn and Winter. I was happy to see some of you are already fans of the brand! I also received some questions about sizing and ordering which I didn’t touch on in the sponsored video, so today I am sharing a complete, unsponsored review of the two styles from VIVAIA that I’ve tried, which will hopefully answer all of your questions before you buy.
About the Brand
I’ve long been curious about VIVAIA’s signature 3D knitted shoe design. I’m also a big fan of any brand using fully recycled materials. Each pair of shoes consists of fibers created from six recycled plastic bottles collected from ocean and city waste and the insoles are made of 100% biodegradable materials. Each pair of shoes is packaged in a 100% recycled cardboard shoe box. The brand offers free international 30 day returns and exchanges.
Design Details
One of the main benefits of this brand is the comfort of the shoe design, particularly for those with wider feet. The knitted design is soft and moveable, expanding and contrasting with you feet as you walk and stand throughout the day. The insoles have extensive padding and arch support and particular styles are made with a wider foot bed for added comfort (see the Aria 5° review below).
Their most popular designs emphasize versatility in addition to physical comfort. For this reason, VIVAIA is a great brand if you’re looking for shoes that can be worn from day to night, for work and leisure. The designs are minimal, devoid of metal hardware and come in many different color options from various nudes and neutrals to more vibrant colors and patterns.
Fit & Sizing
Sizing is always tricky when ordering from a new brand. As always, I would recommend consulting the sizing guide for your best fit. For the two styles I tried, I found there to be some slight variations in sizing, but for the most part I would say these fit true to size. If you have wider feet, the Aria 5° flats will be a great option, as they’re designed with a wider foot bed and added insole padding.
VIVAIA Aria 5° Pointed Toe Mesh Flats
The Aria 5° Pointed Toe Flats are perhaps the most popular style from VIVAIA . I have the black mesh style, which I love for the texture they add to each outfit. The wider foot bed reduces the pinching that’s typical of pointed toe designs. While I have more narrow feet, I still found this design element extremely comfortable, especially on those days when I’m walking for long periods of time. I would highly recommend this particular style for those working retail and events, or anyone who spends like periods of time on their feet. The padded insoles and rubber soles absorb some of the shock of walking in flats and the extra padding around the heel prevents blisters in those sensitive areas that tend to rub. I would be interested to try the regular material, but I think the mesh will be really ideal for the hotter months when breathable shoes are a necessity.
VIVAIA Regina Square Toe Bootie
The Regina Square Toe Bootie is one of a few boot designs from VIVAIA and perhaps my favorite of the two, mostly for the unique design elements. The square toe and low geometric block heel are as comfortable as they are stylish. I love the subtle statement that these boots add to my simple outfits and the knitted material adds a softer touch than say, a stark leather boot. The knitted design hugs nicely around mid calf, which would also make these a great option to pair with skirts and dresses. The water resistant wool knit design helps to keep these dry and insulated, ideal for the Fall season.
More Great Styles from VIVAIA
Not sure if the two styles featured are for you? I’ve rounded up more of my favorite options from VIVAIA in each shoe style: a ballet flat, loafer, heel and boot.
VIVAIA Tamia Round Toe Ballet Flats ($97): A great everyday style if the pointed toe look isn’t for you. I love how the knitted material hugs around the foot and the barely there heel is slightly rounded as well. These would make a great everyday shoe for any occasion.
VIVAIA Amelia Pointed Toe Loafers ($97): I adore the slightly preppy feel of this pointed toe style loafer and the subtle line detail on the top of the hsoe.
VIVAIA Titli Pointed Toe Bow Heels ($129): The feminine bow detail really dresses up this minimal low block heel and gives them a festive feel, subtle enough to wear to the office, wedding and holiday party.
VIVAIA Ryan Chelsea Boot ($139): A Chelsea boot is a classic A/W staple. This one comes in styles that hit below and above the ankle.
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