Recognizable by the V letter that adorns the side of the shoes, Veja sneakers have become essential models. In addition to their very studied style, they stand out for their eco-responsible design.
If you want to learn more about this French brand inspired by Brazil, we tell you everything you need to know about it and we give you our opinion on Veja shoes in this article.
The history of the Veja brand
Before getting down to business, let’s clarify one point once and for all: the brand is pronounced the French way, that is “vay-ja”, and not “vay-rrrra” with a Spanish jota. Actually, we should say that it is pronounced “in Portuguese”, since Veja gets its name from Brazil, where the brand’s sneakers are made (and this word means “see” in the Lusitanian language).
The project was initiated in 2005 by two young graduates from HEC and Paris-Dauphine, François-Ghislain Morillion and Sébastien Kopp. At that time, ethical/fair trade fashion was only in its infancy, and one could therefore say that Veja was a pioneer in the field. Because from the start, the brand aimed to reconcile style with a responsible approach. With particular care given to economic justice and ecological materials.
Organic cotton, Amazonian rubber, recycled plastic bottles and polyester are thus incorporated into the manufacturing process of Veja sneakers. These are made directly in Brazil, near the places where these raw materials are harvested, and in factories that offer decent and respectful working conditions for workers. Unlike brands that tint their actions green (and can be suspected of greenwashing), Veja has been committed to a genuine sustainable approach since its inception.
In addition to recycled materials, the brand is always looking to make its shoes more “natural”, whether it be with vegetable tanning for its leather, the use of fish leather or even the development of a 100% vegan line.
To reach a wider audience, Veja does not hesitate to multiply collaborations with other brands, among which are Agnès B, Rick Owens, Madewell, Bleu de Paname, Balibaris… After its line of shoes for children, Veja also launched its first collection of organic and eco-friendly bags in 2009, but it did not meet the same success. Today, the brand is therefore focusing on its sneakers, and notably its best-sellers which are the Esplar, V-10, V-12…
At the beginning of 2024, Veja takes a new step in its eco-responsible approach by opening its General Store in Paris (Rue de Marseille). It’s a new place dedicated to repair, which brings together various skills, shoe repair services, and clothing alteration.
Our opinion on Veja
As already mentioned above, it is impossible not to acknowledge the eco-responsible approach of the brand. But another strong point of Veja is, of course, the quality of its shoes.
Because yes, these sneakers are both comfortable and stylish, elegant and colorful, while offering a relatively affordable price, around 150€. It’s safe to say that Veja has little to envy from its competition.
The best shoes from Veja
The most emblematic model of the brand is codenamed V-10: these white sneakers sport a retro look and seem to have come straight from the 1980s, with the use of perforated leather (or mesh depending on the version) and a slightly “yellowed” sole. Launched in 2004 to celebrate the brand’s 10th anniversary, they are recognizable by the large V embroidered on the side. Available in multiple colors, these shoes can perfectly fit into a casual silhouette.
The other great classic Veja, are the Esplar sneakers. These can be seen as an alternative to Stan Smith in their white leather version (even more so if you opt for a pair with a green V), but they also exist in canvas. Perfect for the summer, they will pair perfectly with chinos or shorts.
Finally, the brand also plays the sportier card. If the Rio Branco are primarily city sneakers with a sporty look and we would be afraid to dirty the pretty Dekkan, Veja has launched its first “real” running shoes, the Condor, presented as the first sports shoes of the post-oil era!
Current Veja Promotions
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Where to buy Veja shoes?
Fifteen years after its creation, Veja has opened five stores in Paris (including the new General Store), Bordeaux, Berlin, Madrid, and New York! But you can also find these sneakers in a store near you thanks to a strong network of resellers.
On the Internet too, collections are available on a large number of sites, among which Sarenza, MrPorter, L’Exception, La Redoute or We Dress Fair.