ID.EIGHT
ID.EIGHT is an Italian sneaker brand founded by Dong Seon Lee and Giuliana Borzillo. It makes unisex sneakers in Italy from plant-based materials such as pineapple leaf and apple waste leathers.
| Founders | Dong Seon Lee and Giuliana Borzillo |
|---|---|
| Production | Italy |
| Key materials | Pineapple, apple and wine waste leathers |
| Models | Hana and Duri |
| Website | id-eight.com |
What is ID.EIGHT?
ID.EIGHT is a sneaker brand born from the meeting between designer Dong Seon Lee and product manager Giuliana Borzillo. Its shoes are made in Italy and the brand has exhibited at Pitti Uomo in Florence.
Products and positioning
The brand's identity rests on materials. Its main upper material is pineapple leather made from the waste leaves of pineapples grown in the Philippines, alongside leathers derived from apple and wine production waste. Recycled polyester is used for laces, linings and other components.
- Unisex sneaker models Hana and Duri
- Multiple colour variations of each model
- Plant-based alternatives to animal leather
By working with a small number of models in many colourways, ID.EIGHT keeps its range focused while presenting new seasonal variations.
Distribution
ID.EIGHT reaches retailers through trade fairs such as Pitti Uomo, and it has attracted outside investment from the impact investor Aimpact.
Why it matters
ID.EIGHT is one of the Italian brands demonstrating that food-industry by-products can be turned into commercially viable sneaker uppers, combining Italian manufacturing with alternative materials.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded ID.EIGHT?
ID.EIGHT was founded by designer Dong Seon Lee and product manager Giuliana Borzillo.
What are ID.EIGHT sneakers made of?
They use plant-based leathers from pineapple leaves, apple and wine waste, with recycled polyester components.