The shoes are designed to be worn with dresses, skirts, and pants.
The Sustainable Fashion Revolution
The fashion industry is known for its environmental impact, with the production and disposal of clothing contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and waste management issues. In response to these concerns, many designers have turned to sustainable materials and practices to reduce their ecological footprint. Gabriela Hearst, a renowned fashion designer, has taken a significant step towards sustainability with her introduction of real python leather in her spring/summer 2025 collection.
The Story Behind the Leather
Hearst’s decision to use real python leather was not taken lightly. The designer has stated that she was inspired by the beauty and durability of the material, which is sourced from Florida-based materials company Inversa. Inversa uses a unique process to harvest the python skin, which reduces waste and minimizes the impact on the environment. Hearst has praised the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating that she is “thrilled to be working with a brand that shares my values.”
Designing with Sustainability in Mind
Hearst’s use of real python leather is not just a statement piece, but a reflection of her commitment to sustainable design.
The Problem of Invasive Species
Invasive species are a growing concern worldwide, with many species causing irreparable damage to ecosystems and economies. The python in the Greater Everglades is just one example of the devastating impact of invasive species. Other examples include the zebra mussel, which clogs water pipes and disrupts aquatic ecosystems, and the emerald ash borer, which has killed millions of ash trees in North America. The economic impact of invasive species is significant, with estimates suggesting that invasive species cost the US economy over $120 billion annually. Invasive species also have a profound impact on biodiversity, with many species being pushed to the brink of extinction.*
The Solution: Inversa’s Exotic Leather
Inversa’s exotic leathers are made from invasive species that would otherwise be causing harm to ecosystems. By using these species, Inversa is able to reduce the population of invasive species and mitigate the damage they cause. Inversa’s python leather, for example, is sourced from the Greater Everglades in Florida, where non-native pythons are reducing some native species populations by a shocking 90 per cent.
The Problem of Invasive Species
Invasive species pose a significant threat to the health of our planet. These non-native species can outcompete native species for resources, alter ecosystems, and disrupt the delicate balance of nature. In the Mississippi river basin, invasive silverfin have been wreaking havoc on the native fish population, while in the Caribbean Sea, lionfish have been causing a stir among marine life. Invasive silverfin are a type of fish that originated from Europe and have been introduced to the Mississippi river basin through human activity. They are voracious predators that feed on native fish, causing a decline in the native fish population. Lionfish, on the other hand, are a type of fish that originated from the Indo-Pacific region and have been introduced to the Caribbean Sea through human activity. They are known for their venomous spines and ability to outcompete native fish for food.*
The Solution: Inversa
Inversa is a cutting-edge technology that uses AI-powered sensors to detect and remove invasive species from the environment. The technology is designed to work in conjunction with human operators to ensure that the removal process is carried out with the utmost care and respect for the environment.
The Sustainable Shoe Revolution
The world of fashion is known for its environmental impact, and the shoe industry is no exception. From the production of raw materials to the disposal of waste, the fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world. However, there are signs of a shift towards sustainability in the industry, with many brands embracing eco-friendly practices.
Inversa’s Mission
Inversa is a brand that is leading the charge in the sustainable shoe revolution. Their mission is to create shoes that not only look great but also do good for the planet.
