Our favourite ballet flats from Australian designers
IMAGE VIA @lmsthebrand/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY MAEVE KERR-CROWLEY AND FASHION JOURNAL
Comfortable and cute.
To make the most out of your shoe collection – however large or small – the key is to find versatile styles that will last you years and work with a wide variety of looks. Few styles are more adaptable than a classic flat that’s simple in design and comfortable to wear.
Ballet flats have survived decades of the fashion cycle, rising and falling in popularity but never truly going extinct. If you haven’t jumped on the off-duty ballerina train yet, or you’re just looking to expand your collection, look no further than our own backyard.
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There’s no shortage of footwear labels in Australia, and there are many with a focus on local design, high-quality materials and making a product you’ll actually want to wear. We’ve scoured the local offering and pulled together some of our favourite pairs to help you fill the ballet flat-shaped hole in your heart.
Essen Foundation Flat
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As its name suggests, Essen’s Foundation Flat is the best of the basics. Made from smooth, Leather Working Group-certified leather, it modernises the classic ballet flat silhouette with a square toe and a touch more foot coverage. It’s also designed with the natural curve of the foot in mind, making it even more comfortable for everyday wear.
Get it here.
Rollie Nation Ballet Flat
Described as Rollie’s “most flexible shoe yet”, these simple ballet flats are made for walking all day (and night). They’re super soft, ultra-flexible and available up to a size 43, which we love. You can go for a classic black shade or opt for something fun like the zebra print or tumbled lavender leather.
Get it here.
Bared Lapwing II
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Bared sets itself apart from other brands by pairing style with podiatry. These patent leather flats come with Bared’s signature biomechanical footbed to keep your feet in great shape all day. Elevating the style, the Lapwing II features a spacious pointed toe and an adjustable ankle strap.
Get it here.
Radical Yes Pina Pleated Toe Leather Ballet Shoe
The flat shoe experts at Radical Yes crafted a new, modern kind of ballet flat in the Pina, named after German dancer and choreographer Pina Bausch. This limited-edition style features a square pleated toe, a ridged sole and a lime-green elastic cord for adjustment, perfectly balancing masculine and feminine elements.
Get it here.
Post Sole Studio Channel Black Shine
This style bends the definition of ballet flat a little, in that it’s not actually a flat. A small block heel raises the silhouette while an adjustable leather strap takes it from cute flat to classic Mary Jane. The Channel has a subtle square toe and refined leather sole, making it perfect for every day. It also has a high-shine leather finish, making it stand out just a touch more.
Get it here.
Habbot Rupert Flat
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The Rupert flat from Habbot is a classic ballet style at first glance, elevated by the smallest heel. The upper is made from smooth Italian calf leather, with a rounded point at the toe and a comfortable, slip-on silhouette. As well as classic black, it’s available in a curated selection of statement colours.
Get it here.
Senso Billy Flats
The Billy flat is a timeless ballet flat, available in three shades. It’s made from smooth, soft leather with a square toe, pull-tab at the heel and durable rubber sole.
Get it here.
Frankie4 Elizabeth Flat
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Inside the classic silhouette of this smooth leather ballet style, the Elizabeth is designed with sole-saving comfort features on its interior. As well as a perfectly cushioned footbed, it’s packed with arch support and a hidden heel raise.
Get it here.
LMS Lori Flats
Made for dancing into the night, The Lori flat from Australian brand LMS is part of the Super Groupies collection, inspired by rockstars and their muses. These flats are made from smooth leather with a flexible rubber sole. Available in pastel shades and classic neutrals, The Lori is a welcome addition to any trans-seasonal wardrobe.
Get it here.
For a deep dive into the history of the ballet flat, try this.
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