A collection of modern wedding sneakers highlighting Black owned businesses, brands, and African designers.
For better or worse, most brides choose to wear heels on their wedding day. The stylish shoe gives extra height for long gowns and elevates any look. But what about comfort? After saying I-do, many brides end up switching into more relaxed footwear, like sneakers, for their reception. So why not make sneakers the focal point?
Today, finding wedding shoes that are both stylish and comfortable is definitely possible! And with a bit of research, we’ve compiled a list of fashion-forward Black-owned businesses, designers, and shoe brands that might just inspire you to embrace a new wedding shoe tradition!
Keep scrolling below for more wedding sneaker inspiration.
ML Neik’s Design Studio…
ML Neik’s Design Studio is a Black-woman-founded Streetwear/Athleisure brand “Where fashion and art collide.” Their brand is known for using bright colors, textures, and creating unique designs.
The Just Golden Women’s Two-Tone Sneaker is a subtlety impactful option. Made with ethically sourced and eco-friendly materials, its lightweight foam sole will have you feeling like you’re walking on clouds! And did I mention they’re super cute?!
Nagast Footwear…
Black brides looking to incorporate a bit of culture and history into their wedding attire should check out Nagast Footwear.
Founded by Bronx-born New Yorker, Tarik Edmonson, he noticed a gap in the sneaker industry when it came to African-Egyptian designs. By 2015, Tarik was in business and showcasing unique sneaker silhouettes with red, green, and black color palettes.
For more on their mission and how they’re uplifting their community, click here.
KEEXS…
If you’re not afraid of rocking a bold red lip on your wedding day, why not a red shoe?
“The Love Note Iba” sneaker from South African brand, KEEXS, is a stunning shoe with an equally beautiful message: love and unity.
Created in collaboration with Washington, DC-based Nigerian artist, Victor Ekpuk, this shoe incorporates “Nsibidi,” a language of the Ekpe Leopard Secret Society in south-eastern Nigeria, with premium recycled materials. The outcome is a sneaker you’ll look (and feel) great in!
Learn more about KEEXS founder, Babajide Ipaye, and why he started his brand here.
Sole Rebels…
Sole Rebels is perfect for eco-conscious brides.
Founded in Ethiopia by Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, she created a light sneaker design inspired by “traditional ‘barabasso’ (Ethiopian recycled tire) shoe[s].”
This ethically sourced and sustainably made sneaker is one of a kind (and super comfy!).
Enda…
For an on-the-go bride looking for sneakers that can transition from walking down the aisle to hiking on your honeymoon, check out the active, Kenya-made shoe company: Enda.
This empowering brand hopes to “increase fairness, justice, and equality in the world… by making running shoes in Kenya.”
NinetyNine…
With a reputation for being one of (if not) the best Black-owned athletic sneaker brand around, NinetyNine gives a casual but stylish option for brides seeking something comfy to walk down the aisle in.
Billione Rikko…
Bride’s looking for luxury and bling should check out African designer Hilton Mutariswa’s shoe brand: Billione Rikko.
Inspired by high fashion and influenced by his family’s involvement in the African leather trade, Hilton’s designs are carefully crafted and meticulously detailed.
For instance, his shoe, “One,” is a sleek minimalist design made with ostrich hide, Italian calf leather, 18-carat gold, and Swarovski diamonds. As stated on his site: “This isn’t just a shoe, this is a love affair.”
RonDonovan Footwear…
Recently introducing his new luxury trainer collection, RonDonovan Footwear hopes to bring a luxurious lifestyle to individuals (without the hefty price tag).
His new luxury trainers range from calf-suede wedge sneakers to sleek polished options that are perfect for edgy brides.
Looking for more wedding sneakers inspiration?
Click here.
Sources:
- Travel Noire – Article by Malik Peay • Apr 16, 2021
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