Elevate your style the vegan way!
After spending years of her career immersed in computer work and drafting construction documents, architect Annie Mouhapt was eager to evolve her technical and creative prowess to more hands-on projects. Guided by her curiosity for shoe making, she began designing prototypes and selling simple sandals at various craft shows. The immediate support and love from customers fueled the launch of Annie’s shoemaking business with her partner Justin in 2014. Together, they founded Mohop to bring “mo’ hop in yo step” with their 100% vegan, eye-catching footwear and have since expanded to create jewelry, bags, accessories for companion animals, ceramics, and more!
Fashion Forward and Ethically Conscious
Mohop’s commitment to sustainable production goes beyond the mere consideration of materials; it encompasses an entire system aimed at combating the immense waste problem prevalent in the fashion industry. Rather than the default fast-fashion model of overproduction and stockpile waste, Mohop has adopted an on-demand manufacturing approach. They avoid the environmental determinants that accompany overproduction by only creating products when there is a need for them. Mohop also employs cutting-edge technology, utilizing 3D digital design to optimize material and process efficiency, resulting in significant waste reduction. Furthermore, the company’s vertical integration allows them to maintain full control over the production process, including the fabrication of components, ensuring high-quality standards and fair labor practices. Their signature vegan leather is made with a high-quality nylon and works wonders with Mohop’s unique, iridescent aesthetic! Annie shared, “While I’m personally vegan, and Mohop is an entirely vegan business, we’re thrilled to make shoes for non-vegans who may otherwise buy leather shoes.” Mohop primarily sources raw and repurposed materials within the US, prioritizing local suppliers whenever possible. Mohop’s ethical and sustainable practices serve as a beacon of change toward a more responsible and environmentally conscious future of fashion.
Courtesy of Mohop
Centering Inclusivity in Design
Ensuring that there is something that caters to as many needs as possible was critical to Annie’s vision for Mohop. As she learned about the many shoe-fit woes through the years, she wanted to ensure that Mohop could be a haven that offers comfort with a dazzling spin. From making large shoes for the Houstonian holder of the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest feet on a living female person, Tanya Heubert, to small shoes for comedian Tanyalee Davis, Mohop delivers Cinderella’s true fairytale—shoes with the perfect fit! “Inclusivity is an important personal value to us, but we also truly love to problem solve, so it’s been a great opportunity to really nerd out on the technical side of inclusive production processes,” Annie shared with VegOut. In addition to a wide range of shoe sizes and four different widths, Mohop also makes custom shoes that are curated for personalized needs. Now, often neglected customers in the footwear space, including trans women, have found their dream fit at Mohop!
Mohop Founders Justin Walker and Annie Mouhapt Courtesy of Mohop
Uncovering Inspiration in Every Step
It is not uncommon for a designer to be separate from the manufacturing process, and having a cohesive, cooperative design-to-manufacture system is a rarity. However, since all the design and production happen in-house, every part of the process offers sources of inspiration to the Mohop crew. Making innovative, attractive designs while keeping comfort, durability and functionality is at the core of the Mohop Magic! Annie also brings her personal love for colors, flowers, and intricate detail to life in her creations. “Sometimes this world can seem a bit bleak. It’s great to wear fun shoes or bags or earrings that elicit a smile or compliment from a stranger, inspiring those pleasant little moments of human connection,” she said.
Courtesy of Mohop
Mohop’s Must-Haves
Some of Mohop’s favorites are their petite and multi-purpose dog and cat-shaped purses. “Everyone smiles when they see these little animal bags,” Annie shared. Their latest offering taking the spotlight is their new, bestselling flat sandals, which afford a fun shift from their signature clogs and wooden wedges. Customers appreciate their casual style and affordable pricing, making them a sought-after choice in sustainable footwear.
To learn more and get your hands on Mohop’s stunning accessories, visit their website and be sure to follow them on Instagram to keep up with all things Mohop!
