A prefix that has become almost as popular as “bio” and in fact is related in many ways is “eco” – from eco-tourism to eco-terrorism, the term evokes widespread interest and, as its “bio” sister, prompts many consumers to dig deeper into their pockets to pay top dollar for something their inner moral compass identifies as good. And while bio-fashion can be dismissed as the domain of a few eccentrics, eco-fashion actually has the potential to generate a profit. How else can one explain the decision by leading fashion brand Gucci to launch a new line of sustainable, eco-friendly shoes?

Made from bioplastics, the new him and her ballerina and sneaker range complies with EN 13432 and ISO 17088 on degradability and is available in a wide range of colours, from blush to taupe. Sticking to the green theme, the men’s sneakers feature vegetable tanned black calfskin and rhodium-plated metal details. In short: A must for any eco-fashionista craving to keep up with the autumn fashion faze. The price for the new eco shoe: EUR 120 per pair – a small price to foot, so to speak, for a green (clean?) conscience…