AERA is ready to make its mark in the fashion industry while making a net positive impact on the planet as well. AERA was founded by entrepreneur Alvertos Revach, fashion executive Tina Bhojwani, and footwear designer Jean-Michel Cazabat under a joint vision to show customers that style, design, and quality can be analogous with sustainability. The certified vegan shoe line is committed to bringing its philosophy of ‘Good for You, Good for People, Good for the Planet’ to life and offsetting its impact on the planet by 110%. With the brand’s impeccable Italian craftsmanship, timeless designs, and commitment to reducing its environmental impact, there is no stopping the brand from reaching its goal to create shoes with zero-to-positive impact on the environment. Ultimately, AERA was created because the founders believe doing good is as important as looking good.
We had the chance to connect with co-founder, Tina Bhojwani, to discuss the brand and its first collection. Read below.
ALEXANDRA in Black Suede-Effect, Gold Python-Effect, and Metallic Lurex
What piqued your interest in creating a sustainable brand?
We are three founders who all came together with a joint vision to show that luxury craftsmanship and style can be analogous with sustainability.
BLONDIE in Black Suede-Effect, TINA in Natural Python-Effect, JEANMI in Metallic Lurex, and MAXWELL in Black Patent-Effect
Why is the brand named AERA?
AERA comes from the Ancient Greek work 'Aero' which means to raise or to lift up. We want our brand to be a vehicle to raise awareness and one with a higher consciousness towards sustainability.
OLIVIA in Metallic Lurex
Where did you source inspiration for the brand’s first collection?
We wanted to create a collection of seasonless, timeless essentials; shoes that would cover the everyday needs of our customers. The material inspiration for the launch collection came from a patchwork pump in real python which Jean-Michel had created many years ago. We thought it would be incredible to achieve the same look in vegan materials.
AMELIA in Patchwork Python-Effect
Which is your favorite shoe from the collection?
That’s tough. I have several but I would say ‘SALLY’ 75mm Slingback. It is extremely versatile and comfortable and can take you from day to evening.
SALLY in Natural Python-Effect, Black Patent-Effect, White Patent-Effect, Silver Mirror, Gold Mirror, Nude Patent-Effect, Patchwork Python-Effect, and Fuchsia Patent-Effect
The shoes appear to be real leather to the naked eye. Can you briefly describe how this is achieved to our readers?
We are fortunate to be partnering with an innovative supplier in Italy which has been pioneering leather alternatives since 1968. They are continually pushing the envelope when it comes to eco-compatibility, which is their ultimate priority.
CHARLI - Women's Ankle Boot in Black Calf-Effect
and
FRANKY - Men's Ankle Boot in Black Calf-Effect
Please elaborate on the way your company offsets its environmental impact by 110%.
We wanted to go one step further from being neutral, or doing no harm to the environment. The extra 10% allows us to be ‘planet positive’; meaning anyone buying our shoes is helping the environment to heal.
How do you plan on encouraging others to make sustainability the new normal?
We hope our mission will set an inspiring example of what is possible.
To learn more about AERA, visit the below:
Website: https://aeranewyork.com
Instagram: @aeranewyork https://www.instagram.com/aeranewyork/
All images by JC Dhien.
