Embroidered shoes

Made in China - fairly!

$24.00

At a time when "Made in China" is synonymous with sweatshops and exploitation, these sweet little embroidered shoes are a real step in the right direction. They are created by Yunnan Danyun, the only World Fair Trade Organization member in China. Operating out of Yunnan Province, Danyun supports rural development and micro-enterprise amongst the Miao, Yi, and Lisu ethnic minorities.

The fabric of the shoes is hand-embroidered in the striking traditional styles of the Yunnan Province. Embroidery such as this employs marginalised rural women, not only helping them financially but allowing them to discover their value and potential despite their impoverished background.

Originally designed with cotton soles, the shoes available here have a new rubbery plastic sole which is sustainable for mild outdoor walking. Please note that the thread attaching the upper fabric part of the shoe to the sole is threaded through the bottom of the sole. This threading is protected by a deep groove (see photographs), however it means that while the shoe can be worn outside, it is not recommended for heavy-duty terrain. Note also that the buckle is of an unusual type that adjusts on the strap and then slips through the loop to catch (see the photograph for details).

Sizing details

The sizes are set to the the closest standard Australian sizing.

Size 2 1/2: 13 cm inner sole length
Size 5: 15 cm inner sole length
Size 7 1/2: 17 cm inner sole length
Size 8 1/2 : 18 cm inner sole length
Size 11: 20 cm inner sole length