Daphne Wattiez from AKVO: when people, materials and time are valued, the result is more meaningful

Born in 2023, AKVO was founded with a clear objective: to offer a consciously crafted alternative to the mass-produced synthetic sandal. Having identified a gap in the market for sandals that could blend casual elegance with environmental responsibility, the brand established its identity around timeless design, artisanal quality and responsible sourcing. Daphne Wattiez, AKVO's founder, shared that they “saw growing demand for pieces that feel both relaxed and refined”, qualities often lacking in conventional summer staples.

One of the key challenges for AKVO has been aligning craftsmanship with sustainability, particularly when working with natural, bio-sourced materials. These materials often introduce variability, which requires flexibility and adaptability from production partners. 

According to Wattiez, “natural materials bring a degree of unpredictability, but learning to embrace that has been central to both the craft and the aesthetic of what we create”, and building relationships with artisans willing to experiment with small batches was essential to this process.

The Mediterranean plays a defining role in shaping AKVO’s brand philosophy. The region is “both ancestral and ever-evolving”, with layered histories, cultures, and natural beauty influencing everything from the materials used to the design palette and production ethos. “It is a place where simplicity, beauty and cultural richness come together — values that we carry into everything we create”, the Founder highlights.

Inspired by the region’s long-standing craftsmanship and connection to nature, the brand “draws from its landscapes, flora and fauna and timeless craft traditions. This influence shapes our palette, our materials and our approach to thoughtful, human-scale production”, Wattiez shares.

In an era dominated by fast fashion and sprawling global supply chains, AKVO is advocating for a redefinition of what constitutes growth and success within the footwear sector. According to the Founder, “progress is not just about volume — it is about transparency, ethics and creating with care”.

Rather than focusing on volume, the brand prioritises ethical production and transparency. “We believe that when people, materials and time are valued, the result is more than just responsible — it’s more meaningful”, Wattiez emphasises.

Looking forward, AKVO believes that the future of sustainable footwear will be shaped by material innovation, circularity and a return to emotional durability, reflecting a desire for products that are both physically and sentimentally long-lasting.

“We are continuing to explore natural materials, refine low-impact processes and design with longevity in mind. It is about evolving thoughtfully, without compromising soul or style”, she notes. By doing so, AKVO aims not only to adapt to emerging trends but also to help lead the shift towards more thoughtful, soulful approaches to footwear design and production.