Ethically-Made Men’s Dress Shoes

So you have a big event coming up. Whether it’s a graduation, a gala, a job interview, or a wedding (your own, perhaps?) you may be struggling to find formal footwear that fits with your values. 

The Wrong Kind of Footprint

You want to make memories — not a massive carbon footprint.

But here’s the problem: most men’s dress shoes are made of leather.

Leather production is infamous for the toll it takes on the planet, releasing greenhouse gas into our atmosphere, and toxic materials into our land and water. 

But you may not know that the leather industry is also harmful to the people who work in it. Workers are often struggling to get by, paid far less than a living wage. Their working conditions aren’t safe, either. Tanneries are often located in polluted areas, and the leather tanning process uses a lot of harsh chemicals. This double exposure to toxic material means that workers can become seriously ill. Many tanneries even use child labor.  

And in addition to leather, shoes may some other seriously eco-unfriendly materials, like rubber and plastic, or non-vegan glue. 

This is probably starting to sound overwhelming. But never fear! Vegan leather is a long-lasting, durable material that makes fantastic men’s shoes. And swapping out other eco-unfriendly materials for recycled one can cut down on ecological impact, too. Plus, there are some awesome companies out there that care as much about their workers as you do.

We’ve done all the work to make sure that you can find ethically-made, eco-friendly formal shoes for your next big event. Here are 9 pairs of ethical men’s dress shoes.

Get ready to meet your new favourite shoes. You’re gonna get so many compliments on your big day.

9 Pairs of Ethical Men’s Dress Shoes

Slim-Sole Dress Boots from Will’s Vegan Store:

Will’s Vegan Shoes are kind of a superstar of the ethical footwear community. They’re always 100% vegan, they’re made in safe, health, and just conditions in Portugal, and they’re carbon neutral. Will’s wants to go above and beyond for their workers and their customers. That’s why all of their shoes are dependable, long-lasting, and meant to fit your active lifestyle.  

And can we talk about these dress BOOTS, y’all? These lace-ups are a unique take on a dress shoe. They’re totally appropriate for a formal event, but with a more outdoors-y vibe. Sure, you’re at a formal event, but that doesn’t mean you can’t show off your phenomenal personality, does it?  

Men’s Derby Shoe from NAE:

These derby shoes from NAE are classic dress shoes that look like they’re made from a gorgeous leather– but it’s all 100% vegan, baby. And uh, is your usual pair of leather dress shoes water resistant? I didn’t think so. But this one is. 

Plus, all the materials and practices used are eco-friendly and ethical. NAE (No Animal Exploitation) believes in responsibility towards animals, people, and the environment. That means no animal products, eco-friendly practices, great working conditions– and comfortable, fashionable shoes for you. 

William Classic Oxford by Bourgeois Boheme:

These oxfords, from Bourgeois Boheme, are simple, neat, and classy– but that doesn’t make them boring! These shoes feature subtle asymmetrical design elements, making them even more special upon a closer look. Available in black or brown, these shoes pair great with just about any type of formalwear. They might just be your next go-to shoe. 

And the company that makes them isn’t too shabby, either. Bourgeois Boheme may have a name that I seriously struggle to spell, but their company practices are ethical, eco-friendly, and downright inspiring. They don’t use any animal products– all of their apparel is 100% vegan. They have high standards when it comes to being environmentally friendly and kind to their workers, too.

Just like you.   

Oscar Moccasins from NAE: 

These moccasins are another great option from NAE. You already know about their ethical practices, so I’ll skip right to telling you more about this shoe.

These vegan moccasin-style loafers offer a classy, but slightly more casual style. If your big event is less black-tie and more “come in whatever makes you feel good”, these are a great pick for you.    

Longwing Brogues from Brave GentleMan: 

These stylish shoes are 100% vegan, made with fair labor practices, and sustainable, too. That’s what Brave GentleMan is all about– they’re passionate about ethical, eco-friendly practices, and high-quality products. Their founder, Joshua Katcher, is a fashion designer, author, activist, and expert on ethical practices in fashion (after all, that’s what he teaches, all over the world). 

With beautiful brogue detailing and a shape that will never go out of style, these shoes are a classic made new again. While you’re on their site, check out their suits and outerwear, too. 

Also, Brave GentleMan was featured on the cover of British GQ, worn by none other than Benedict Cumberbatch. So if you’re trying to channel the man who plays Sherlock and Doctor Strange, look no further. 

Wingtip Boots from Ahimsa:

Okay, I try to stay professional in these articles, but I’ll just say it: these wingtip boots from Ahimsa are sexy. And honestly, if I saw a man wearing these at a wedding or a gala or a fundraiser, I would march right up to that man, and I would start flirting with him. What is it about them, you ask? 

Well, they’re formal– a perfect pairing for a well-fitting suit with a skinny tie– but they’re unique, too. They have beautiful brogue detailing. And they’re not formal shoes, they’re boots. Beautiful, classy, and yes, downright sexy, boots. 

Honestly, if you’re looking to meet someone special at your big event, get these boots. I’m serious. That person will come right up to you and say: “Wow. I love your boots.”

And then you’ll say, “Thank you so much! What I love most about them, actually, is that they were made by Ahimsa, a company that’s dedicated to their customers, their workers, and the planet. These shoes are made from 100% vegan materials, by workers who are paid great wages in a safe, healthy working environment. And these boots are made of such good-quality materials, they’ll last me years and years, no matter what type of wear I put them through. Plus, Ahimsa’s processes are sustainable and eco-friendly. It’s important to me that the businesses I support are good for people and the planet.’ 

And then that person will say, “Marry me.” 

Desert Sketch Fantasy from Risorse Future & Desert Pagoda from Eco Shoes by Massimo

We’ve got a two-for-one, folks. I decided to list these two pairs of shoes together because they have the same beautiful shape. But I couldn’t resist showcasing both of these fun patterns.

The Desert Sketch Fantasy shoes feature fanciful splotches of colour across a cotton background. These lace-ups are comfortable and provide more ankle support than your traditional formal shoe. But they also offer a chance to express your creative personality. And you might be wondering if shoes this colourful could possibly match your go-to suit– but they can. These shoes can go with almost any outfit, offering a bright pop of color and making you stand out from the crowd. 

The Desert Pagoda shoes offer a more organized houndstooth pattern, but arrayed in a colorful quilt.

No matter which pattern you choose, though, you can’t go wrong with these unique, special shoes. 

And of course, they’re vegan, eco-friendly, and cruelty-free. That means no animal products, and no unfair working conditions, either. 

Edward Derby Shoe from Ahimsa:

If you’re looking for a style that’s simple and timeless, look no further. The Edward Derby shoe from Ahimsa offers a beautiful take on the classic men’s dress shoe.

You can get it in several colours and materials. If you want a classic look, go for the vegan leather in black or brown. Or, for a subtle twist, you can pick the cotton canvas version instead.

No matter what you go with, though, you can be assured that these shoes will go with any formal outfit. They’re are durable and lasting, and they’ll work just as well for that work event as they will for that job interview. 

Desert Anthracite Shoes from Risorse Future

The Desert Anthracite shoe is a more chilled-out version of the Desert Pagoda and Desert Sketch Fantasy shoes you saw above. If you’re not looking to sport an abstract painting on your feet, no worries. This classic, neutral look is the perfect match for you. 

And you still get all the benefits of a shoe that’s comfortable, and just a little more unique than your typical dress shoe. And it’s eco-friendly and ethically-made, of course. 

So whether you’ll be meeting your one true love at the end of the aisle, or you want to really impress your boss and win that promotion, there’s an ethical dress shoe out there for you. You don’t need leather and other non-eco-friendly materials to look (and feel) amazing. 

So get out there and find the dress shoe that’s the perfect fit for you! And if that dress shoe happens to be those wingtip boots, um…. Call me.