This article appears in print in the January 2019 issue. Click here to subscribe.

Designer Luis Velez launched Capitol Hill–based sneaker and apparel company Guillermo Bravo in August with an eye to more than just fashion.

“I wanted to create something that is both stylish and sustainable,” says Velez, noting that each person involved in making his pieces is paid a living wage, and the sneakers, manufactured in Italy, are made with a combination of easy-on-the-environment vegetable-tanned leather, Italian nubuck and biodegradable outsoles.

Velez, who studied shoemaking at Port Townsend’s ShoeSchool and took industrial sewing classes at Seattle Central Community College, is a fan of sporty sneakers found on the basketball court. His sneaks aren’t cheap (they start at about $295 a pair), but they are eye-catching—notice the clean urban design, featuring minimalist details and a sleek sole that contours toward the toe. And isn’t feeling good about looking good worth a little extra?

Photo by Victoria Kovios