If there’s one item in my wardrobe that I’m fiercely passionate about, it’s shoes. For me, these are the key element which can absolutely transform the way an outfit looks. They can be used to convey a feeling of formality or ease, as a statement, or align some sense of balance through their colour or style. So today, we’re going to be talking allll about shoes, as I run through a VIVAIA shoe review. In partnership with VIVAIA, I’ll be chatting through four styles that I’ve added to my wardrobe from the brand.
During the month of June, VIVAIA are celebrating their second anniversary with weekly specials. You can find out more about their current offers on their Instagram. Additionally you can also get 15% off your order using the code ‘made15’ at checkout.
ABOUT VIVAIA
If you’re not already familiar with VIVAIA, they’re a footwear brand that create stylish and sustainable footwear using natural fibres and recycled materials. Each pair of shoes is woven with the yarn from six plastic bottles. VIVAIA uses a zero waste design process and 3D technology for manufacturing, and each pair of shoes arrives in packaging made with 100% recycled cardboard. Safe to say that being eco-conscious is at the brand’s core.
The one thing that is really unique to their shoes is that each and every pair is made using a knitted design. It has movement and give, yet feels sturdy and robust. As someone with wide feet and a bunion, this is an ideal alternative to leather, and I just love the textural component it adds to an outfit. Not to mention it is super comfortable, too.
SIZING & FIT
Next let’s talk notes on sizing. I picked out four different styles, and went with my usual size EU40 for each. This is my standard size when shopping for shoes online, which converts to an AU9/UK7/FR41. Overall, I’d say that the styles fit true to size, and I found their sizing chart handy as a frame of reference for a new brand I’d not tried on previously.
The Aria 5 Pointed Toe Flats and the Minnie Pointed Toe Everyday Flats both have a slightly narrower sole. However, this hasn’t bothered me in the slightest. The knitted fabric of the shoe has so much flexibility to it, that it easily accommodates my wide feet and bunion. The Aria 5 is an upgrade on their classic collection for those with a wider foot, with a 5 degree adjustment that gives your toes more freedom. That said, if you have extra wide feet you may like to go up a half size in the pointed toe styles.
The Square Toe Slide Heels (which I have in almond) and the Square Toe Knot Loafers (which I have in rich grey) are a slightly wider fit, and were naturally very comfortable the moment I slipped my feet into them.
With this knitted fabric composition, one thing you’ll notice with wear is that is begins to mould to the shape of your foot, and will soften substantially. Essentially, a shoe that’s already comfortable from the get go, will become even more comfortable to slip on.
QUALITY & DESIGN DETAILS
One of the things I tend to look out for when it comes to adding anything new to my closet, is quality. I want to know that these items will last the distance. As I mentioned earlier, each pair of VIVAIA shoes is made using the yarn from six recycled water bottles.
What I like is that depending on the style, the yarn is often blended with other natural fibres like hemp, cotton, or wool. Hemp in particular is an incredibly durable natural fibre. It’s also naturally moisture wicking and odour resistant, and has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Not only does this knitted design set VIVAIA’s shoes apart from other brands, but it’s also texturally interesting. Depending on the design of the shoe, the weave of the yarn will look different. For example the heeled mules I have feature more of a ribbed effect, while the flats and loafers have a finer, tighter weave.
The finish on each pair is also very nice. There’s no visible glue, stitching is even, and they each feature an embroidered ‘V’ for VIVAIA.
Let’s wrap up this VIVAIA Shoe Review with a quick overview of each style I’ve added to my closet.
VIVAIA Aria 5 Pointed Toe Flats Review
The Aria 5 is your classic pointed toe flat. The one that goes from office, to weekend, to dinner. I opted to get these in the ‘Espresso’ colour, but there’s 19 different options ranging from easy neutrals to bold brights. The classic range is $97 USD per pair, while the hemp version (which I have) is $139 USD per pair.
Exceptionally light to hold and to wear, these are such a great option if you’re after a very easy run-about shoe that looks put together and chic. The rubber sole is super flexible, so you have full range of movement, and the herbal PU foam insole gives cushioning and arch support to your foot. It’s squishy, but with some resistance to it.
What makes the Aria 5 different is the increased width across the toe box. This small design upgrade gives you extra space to avoid your toes feeling squeezed; something that is complemented by the four-way stretch knit upper. Best part is that they’re machine washable, making them a very practical option and super easy to care for.
I wear mine in a size EU40 and would say that they do fit true to size, but the sole of the shoe feels a little on the narrow side. As mentioned, the knitted fabric has a lot of give. Though you may like to go up a half size if you have especially wide feet.
You can shop VIVAIA’s Aria 5 Pointed Toe Flat here.
VIVAIA Minnie Pointed Toe Everyday Flats Review
Very similar in shape and style to the Aria 5, the Minnie Flats feature a few subtle design differences. Where the Aria 5 has a flat rubber sole, these have a more structure sole with a low 20mm heel. The toe is also ever-so-slightly squared off.
To me, these are the perfect every day shoe. Visually, they are classic to look at. The little low heel gives you a slight bit of height and makes these feel more elevated that a classic ballet flat.
They’re available in two colours, and retail for $107 USD.
I opted to get these in the EU40, but the size guide recommends going up a size if you have wide feet. Which on reflection, may have served me well. That said, I have no issues with my true size, especially as the knitted fabric does soften and mould to the shape of your foot with wear.
You can shop VIVAIA’S Minnie Pointed Toe Everyday Flats here.
VIVAIA Caitlin Square Toe Knot Loafers Review
VIVAIA’s Caitlin Loafers are a style that incorporate elements of modernity. For me, it’s all bout the squared off toe, and that thick braided strap across the vamp. These feature a small 30mm heel; enough to give you a touch of elevation.
They’re available in three different colours, and retail for $99 USD.
On the foot, they feel sturdy and robust, and give you a lot of coverage. They hug the foot perfectly, and my heels don’t slip out at all when I walk. I wear mine in a size EU40. Unlike the pointed toe styles the sole is cut slightly wider. Stick with your usual size.
You can shop VIVAIA’s Caitlin Square Toe Knot Loafers here.
VIVAIA Jade Square Toe Slide Heels Review
Finally we have the Jade Mules. This style again has that squared off toe, and these architectural and modern components are reflected elsewhere in the design. You’ll spot a slightly asymmetrical cut in the strap across the foot, the sharp lines of which are mimicked in the angular lines of the heel.
These have a 50mm heel, which give you that extra bit of height, without sacrificing comfort. The knitted strap across the foot is feels secure, and I don’t find that they slip off my feet as I walk.
Available in six different colours – classic neutrals and pretty pastels – with a retail price of $119 USD.
Again, I took my usual size, an EU40. Backless shoes are ones I tend to find a little tricky shopping for, but these fit true to size. Even if you have wide feet. My heel doesn’t hang off the edge at all.
You can shop VIVAIA’s Jade Square Toe Slide Heels here.
Thanks again to VIVAIA for partnering with me on this post.
