New eco-friendly shoes by Payless

In a continual celebration of all things Earth Day-related I thought I’d share some new green fashion trends to send you off on your merry eco-shopping way.

In stores as of April 13th, Payless Shoe Source has launched Zoe & Zac, a new line of shoes and accessories created with eco-friendly materials. Made with jute, hemp, organic cotton, tagua nuts, water-based glues and even recycled rubber, one could picture some very granola-looking frumpy styles. But fear not – green no longer equals unfashionable! The line has a variety of running shoe-style flats, ballet slippers, and chic dressy to casual sandals decked out in bright colours and metallic straps.

The accessories include long wood pendants, bracelets and earrings with pops of turquoise and hot pink and are created using natural materials like açai nuts. Even the packaging is eco-friendly, made with recycled shoe boxes and soy-based inks.

I know what you’re thinking – green usually equals expensive. But the Payless line is super affordable; the entire line is under $45. Available in select stores, this spring line will feature two handbags, eight women’s styles, three girl’s shoes, and socks and jewellery in seasonal colours.

And of course, not to be forgotten – Summer Rayne Oakes is the new spokeswoman, author of Style, Naturally: The Savvy Shopping Guide to Sustainable Fashion & Beauty . She’s a model-activist and also one of the board of advisors for Planet Green, the Discovery Network’s eco-lifestyle channel. She’s on board for creating more fresh green fashions to come to keep your eyes open for what’s coming out this summer.

–Kate Daley