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Whenever we peruse the super-swanky shopping stretch that is Berkeley’s Fourth Street, we must pop into eco-chic boutique Convert to peep its striking selection of earth-friendly soles. From exclusive, vegan Jeffery Campbells to must-have Melissa flats, the array of footwear frontrunners is staggering, and it certainly doesn't hurt that most pairs are great for mother earth.
So, when we heard they were wandering across the way (a block down) to open up a shoes-only shop, we were beyond stoked to see the set up. Our takeaway after visiting the space: Convert Shoes is bigger and better than we could imagine — featuring a crazy amount of exclusive, earth-friendly shoes for women, men, and children (perched on sustainable shelving, of course).
“We opened Convert Shoes because of the great demand for shoes at Convert," says owner Randy Brewer. "Opening the store allows us to provide a wider selection for our customers, as well as create more opportunities for sustainable collaborations, like our vegan collection with Jeffrey Campbell."
As for the ambiance, it's pure rustic chic. “We made every effort to design the store with as many sustainable elements as possible," Brewer explains. "The store is outfitted with vintage furniture, recycled cardboard shelving and cash wrap, and painted with low-VOC paint.”
Want to see what he's talking about and load up on some major shoe porn? Peep our Instagram slideshow and then visit the new space at the address below.
Convert Shoes, 1844 Fourth Street (between Virginia Street and Hearst Avenue), Berkeley; 510-984-0142.
Photographed by Angela Tafoya
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