Founder’s Associate

Through groundbreaking technology, we are revolutionizing the footwear industry at VLACE by transforming fruit waste into premium, sustainable sneakers. Founded in 2022 by Viola Weller, our mission is to prove that style and environmental responsibility can coexist without compromise. We utilize innovative bio-based materials derived from grape, apple, and orange residues—byproducts of the juice and wine industries—to create a durable, leather-like alternative that significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional leather.

Our commitment to ethical innovation extends to our entire production process. Every pair of VLACE sneakers is handcrafted in a family-run manufactory in Portugal, ensuring fair labor practices and exceptional artisanal quality. By integrating recycled materials such as PET bottles and reclaimed cork into our designs, we are pioneering a circular economy in fashion. At VLACE, we are not just creating shoes; we are driving a movement towards a cruelty-free, eco-conscious future, redefining what it means to step lightly on the planet.