Veganuary: the 7 pairs of vegan shoes you need in your wardrobe

This article was originally published on January 16th 2019 on The National Student.

We're halfway through Veganuary and countless people have really been talking the talk, but have they been walking the walk?  We've rounded up seven of the best pairs of shoes that will keep a spring in your step without an animal product in sight:

1. Vans: Checkerboard Classic Slip On

Even if you've never touched a skateboard in your life, there's no reason why you shouldn't embrace the effortless cool offered by Vans.  These classic slip ons in a monochrome checkerboard print would be ideal paired with a simple tee and some high-waisted jeans for an everyday go-to look.

2. Veja: Esplar SE White Pekin Marsala

Look, if they're good enough for the Duchess of Sussex they're good enough for us.  Veja has boomed in popularity in the last couple of months and rightly so; nothing will brighten up a dull January day quicker than the bright red detailing of these classic tennis style shoes.

3. Nike: Free RN 2018

If, like so many others, one of your new year's resolutions was to get more active, these Nike trainers are your answer; despite being completely free of leather and other animal products they're still water-repellent, so there's really no excuse not to get outside come rain or shine!

4. Converse: Classic high top

Image credit: Pixabay

Just like the LBD and the white shirt, the Converse high top is very much a style classic.  A true wardrobe staple, you can pair these with anything from smock dresses or shorts in the summer to jeans or skirts in the winter.

5. Dr. Martens: Vegan Flora

DMs may be notorious for their hardcore leather, but that doesn't mean they can't also cater to vegans; in terms of looks, these chelsea boots appear no different to their original leather counterparts.  These are a classic style which can be easily dressed up or down - as long as you're willing to embrace the DM blisters for a while before breaking them in.

6. Schuh: Black Stronger boots

If you're after something a little chunkier, Schuh's Stronger boots - which make up part of their dedicated "vegan friendly" range - would be a fab choice.  At just £40 they're a total steal, and that doesn't even include the student discount they're also eligible for!

7. Nasty Gal: Heels

Veganuary doesn't mean you can't still have fun, so for those occasions that call for something a bit fancier than trainers Nasty Gal have a fab selection of vegan heels. Although not listed specifically as vegan on their site, you don't need to worry; we contacted them and they confirmed that Nasty Gal does not sell animal products and that their heels are therefore completely animal-free!