When I realized that my shoe obsession was threatening my relationship, I frantically stuffed boxes under the bed to hide the fact that I had another pair of shoes. Next to the front door, in the shoe rack I had cleaned out, there was a perfectly normal number of shoes. Under the bed, however, it was a whole different story. I’m only giving you this context so you understand that I really, really love shoes and that what I’m about to say should therefore not be taken lightly: I’ve been wearing the same pair of shoes for a month.
In the summer, it can be difficult to worry about your own feet. On vacation (depending on where you are), you can wear flip-flops without worry. I have friends and colleagues who have managed to translate that flip-flop life to the city, and while I admire the freedom with which they wiggle their toes around town, I don’t find the prospect of public transport and almost bare feet appealing at all. Of course, I’ve been totally into the ballet flat renaissance for some time now, although I must admit I’ve struggled to find really chic pairs that last (I’ve bought plenty of cheap pairs that fall apart after a few wears). Then I discovered this woven pair from Dear Frances.
If Dear Frances isn’t immediately familiar, I promise you’ve seen the brand’s shoes before, even if you didn’t know it. Founded in 2016 by Jane Frances, an Australian who was a shoemaker in Italy, the London-based label has quietly built a loyal following among fashion editors and a few celebrities, even though its entire ethos is based on offering extremely high-quality craftsmanship and stylish designs in a decidedly understated way. Last year, the Balla mesh ballet flats were almost ubiquitous, so you’ve definitely seen the brand before, even if you didn’t know it.
In fact, the mesh ballet flats were so popular that they naturally spawned thousands and one copycat models, none of which matched the originals. For me, this summer was a breeze (at least for my feet) thanks to the woven version of the Balla, new this season. They’re comfortable, stylish, and offer the breathability of sandals and the protection of ballet flats. I’ve worn them almost every day for the past few weeks. Another benefit? They go with everything.
It’s not just the Balla ballet flats that make Dear Frances so brilliant though. I’ve got my eye on the new Tia ballet flats which are perfect for transitional wear, while the new Balla Crystals are arguably the best party shoes I’ve ever seen. Plus, the relaunched bag collection is full of dreamy styles to suit all aspects of a busy life.
Next week I’m going on holiday with limited luggage allowance, which as you can imagine would normally be quite a problem given my love of shoes. Not this time. I’m only going to pack my Balla ballet flats and leave room in my suitcase for souvenirs.
Shop: The best shoes from Dear Frances
Hannah Banks-Walker is Grazia’s Head of Fashion Retail. She has previously written for Harper’s Bazaar, The Financial Times, Glamour, Stylist, The Telegraph, Red, iD and The Pool on everything from fashion to curly hair (hi!) to the patriarchy. Not necessarily in that order. Find her on Instagram And Þjórsárden. But please don’t look for her MySpace profile, because that’s where she last wrote about herself in the third person.
