Brazilian-based footwear brand Melissa recently announced the launch of the Melissa Free collection to the United States. First introduced to Brazil in Summer 2021, Melissa Free is a collection of cloud slides that "explores the idea of freedom as a state of mind" as they exude the feeling of floating. The new eco-friendly monoblock shoe is made from sugar cane -- a material that provides 20% fewer carbon emissions than traditional plastics.
"Melissa Free explores the texture of the material, highlighting its lightness, comfort and design", says Melissa’s general manager, Raquel Scherer. "The collection is about exploring new roads and feeling free with every choice, space or expression."
The new Melissa Free collection will be available for purchase through shop.melissa.com as well as Galeria Melissa NY and Clube Melissa in Los Angeles, with prices ranging from $79 to $89.
Sugar Cane-Based Cloud Slides
Melissa Free are Cloud Slides Made from Renewable Material
Trend Themes
1. Eco-friendly Footwear - Opportunities to innovate in materials science and production processes to create sustainable and stylish footwear that appeals to conscious consumers.
2. Renewable Material Fashion - The potential to create environmentally friendly fashion from renewable materials, such as sugar cane, that can replace traditional plastics to reduce carbon emissions and waste.
3. Cloud Slides - Trend towards comfortable and lightweight footwear that promotes a feeling of floating and freedom, inspiring designers to create new and innovative designs in this category.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry has an opportunity to reduce its environmental impact by developing and promoting clothing and accessories made from renewable and sustainable materials.
2. Footwear - Footwear companies can invest in eco-friendly materials and design processes to create comfortable and stylish shoes that appeal to consumers looking for sustainable and ethical products.
3. Materials Science - Material scientists can explore new approaches to developing renewable materials that can replace traditional plastics, leading to more sustainable and environmentally friendly products in a variety of industries.