Bourgeois Boheme Footwear Newsletter

Bourgeois Boheme is an independent London-based vegan footwear brand founded in 2005 by Alicia Lai, a qualified podiatrist who set out to prove that luxury leather-free shoes could match conventional footwear in quality and style. Every pair is artisan-made in Portugal from eco-friendly Italian vegan leathers, championing slow fashion and ethical production from the ground up.

A Brand Built on Principle

The name Bourgeois Boheme captures the brand's philosophy perfectly: unconventional sophistication that blends classic British shoe design with a culturally forward-thinking, cruelty-free ethos. After relaunching in 2014 as an exclusive vegan footwear label, the brand refined its focus entirely on timeless styles made without any animal-derived materials. Fans of the brand have included well-known vegans such as Natalie Portman, Bryan Adams, and Torrey DeVitto.

Artisan Craft and Eco-Friendly Materials

Each shoe in the Bourgeois Boheme collection is handcrafted in Portugal by skilled artisans using traditional shoemaking techniques. The materials of choice are the finest eco-friendly Italian vegan leathers, selected to deliver the look, feel, and longevity expected of luxury footwear. The result is a range of shoes for men and women that challenges the perception of what leather-free footwear can be.

Slow Fashion for the Long Term

Bourgeois Boheme works tirelessly to champion slow fashion through updated British shoe classics designed to stand the test of time. Rather than chasing seasonal trends, the brand focuses on brand-exclusive styles produced under fully ethical conditions, keeping the operation deliberately small and independent so that quality and values are never compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Bourgeois Boheme shoes vegan?

Every component of a Bourgeois Boheme shoe is completely free from animal-derived materials. The uppers, linings, and soles are all made from eco-friendly Italian vegan leathers and synthetic materials, so no leather, suede, wool, glue, or dye of animal origin is used at any stage of production.

Where are Bourgeois Boheme shoes made?

All shoes are handcrafted by skilled artisans in Portugal using traditional shoemaking techniques. Production is kept deliberately small-scale so that ethical working conditions and close attention to detail can be maintained throughout.

Who founded Bourgeois Boheme and when?

The brand was founded in 2005 by Alicia Lai, a qualified podiatrist and long-time vegan based in London. Drawing on her foot-health expertise and her commitment to cruelty-free living, she created a brand that bridges luxury craftsmanship and animal-free values.

What styles does Bourgeois Boheme offer?

The range covers footwear for both men and women, with a focus on timeless British-inspired classics including loafers, boots, and dress shoes. Styles are designed to be versatile and enduring rather than trend-led, in keeping with the brand's slow-fashion ethos.

Is Bourgeois Boheme a certified ethical brand?

The brand is one of the most established vegan footwear labels in the UK and has built its reputation on ethical production, eco-friendly materials, and transparent sourcing. It operates as an independent label, allowing it to maintain direct oversight of its supply chain in Portugal.

What vegan leather does Bourgeois Boheme use?

The brand sources eco-friendly Italian vegan leathers for its uppers and linings. These materials are selected for their durability and their ability to replicate the texture and quality of conventional leather, without any involvement of animal products or by-products.

Note: this brochure is from our archive and may no longer reflect the current range or availability. Please visit the brand's website directly for up-to-date information.