The Proper Label®, a sustainable clothing and footwear brand based in Manhattan, celebrated its 10th anniversary at the 1Hotel Brooklyn Bridge during the SS25 NYFW season. The Iconic Elegance Soirée was a black-tie rooftop event, in tandem with a week-long schedule of events with non-profits: Play 4 Purpose & Dress for Success.

Celebrating The Proper Sneaker®, a legacy product, takes a retrospective look at the timeless all-white sneaker with an elevated yet minimalist silhouette. Intentionally displayed as guests entered the 1Hotel Brooklyn Bridge rooftop, these low-top shoes are made from genuine leather sourced locally in Portugal, 100% Organic Cotton, and recycled materials. 

Since its creation, Co-Founders Camille and Sonia Tanoh have crafted a mission-driven venture that reinvents the sneaker world through ethical and eco-conscious practices. Utilizing the materials already mass-produced such as devulcanized rubber soles, 100% Organic Cotton and Hemp, Cruelty-Free Leather, and implementing zero-waste packaging are not supplemental, they are a necessity. 

“Sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a responsibility. We’re building a future where what we wear and how we live to preserve the planet we share,” Camille explained.

“The Proper Label ® was started to create something that reflects our values—timeless design, uncompromising quality, and a commitment to leaving the world better than we found it with metrics to support these claims.”

The phrase, “stepping into someone’s shoes” takes on a much larger impact for The Proper Label  ® when one considers the implications of consumer waste on our environment. Camille and Sonia were brought up in Paris with African roots and have directly observed the impact of waste on the planet. Africa alone receives 70% of the world’s donated clothing, with much of it being discarded due to its quality. 

Open-minded cognizance of consumer power and environmental repercussions are ingrained into the company’s mission of melding sustainability and chic, creating pieces that last longer and reduce waste. Other emblematic products include the Upcycled Denim Patchwork collection, the Consciousness Crewneck, and various Proper Sneaker lines including The PR003 and The Fly Dove sneakers. 

In the last decade, the company has been able to elevate eco-consciousness through its garments, and bring together a passionate, meticulous network of innovators. 

The Iconic Elegance Soirée was the amalgamation of this, made complete by its Proper Community. Guests included: Danny Dorcena, Antonia Nasser, Myles Rowe, Justin Fullerton, Farima Kone Kito, Julia Bergshoeff, Keenan Macwilliam, Hawa, Villa Beatz, Essence Carson, Kim Sarah, Whitney Kyles, Eric Essebag, Malike Sidibe, and many more. Amidst it all, New York’s busy skyline glimmered behind the guests, moving as if in synchronicity with the brand’s North Star. 

Freddie, otherwise known as Mini Skrrt, kept energies radiant as a DJ alongside Alyx Ander. The essence of community, culture, and creativity was captured by world-renowned photographer, Stephane Feugere. To conclude the night, attendees were invited to attend an after-party at Loosie’s where they could continue to bond and converse on the future of the brand. 

“Creating The Proper Label has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” Camille said in an interview with Loop Magazine. “Being able to celebrate our 10th anniversary with hundreds of our loved ones and supporters was an evening I will never forget.” 

Each step taken in The Proper Sneakers reflects not only your style but your power as an individual to reconstruct our future for the better. The future is Proper. Cheers to 10 years, and many more.