Cute, unique, not-crazy-expensive, and VEGAN shoes. Hot Chocolate Design was founded by a couple in Venezuela in 2004 and have remained true to their commitment provide an alternative to the uniformity and soullessness of most mass-produced brands. The designers take their inspiration from their passion for vintage, and nostalgia for things that made them feel happy and comfortable when they were young (pompoms, fairytale characters, a bowl of cherries!)

I grabbed these Green Havana flats – couldn’t believe they were vegan! HCD products have limited runs and new styles come out regularly. I think these Nurse mary janes are pretty timely (although risky if you can’t stand the sight of blood). Some – OK, most – of the shoes feature different but related artwork on each shoe, others, like the pink, mid-heel Lily, are tamer, but adorable. hotchocolatedesign.com