flats

I’ve kept at least one pair of ballet flats in my shoe collection since I was in high school. However, it’s taken me quite some time to find what I would consider the perfect pair. I’ve come across two styles that meet my expectations, but today we’ll focus on the second of my discoveries, the Margaux Demi flat. (The other style, the Havana flat by Blue Velvet Shoes, isn’t available to ship to the U.S.)

I’ve never had a more glamorous shoe shopping experience than the one I had at the Margaux showroom in 2017. The business was located at 37 W 20th St. back then, and I’d made a special trip into the city for the occasion. (They’ve since moved to 387 Bleecker St.) Before the pandemic, I’d make up any excuse to be out and about in Manhattan. The building on W 20th was a high-rise with multiple business suites, and Margaux lived in number 1206. The plain, white hallway gave no indication of the beautiful decor beyond the door. The soft grey walls, the picket-fence-white shelving, the circular table that reminded me of a tree, the plush seating…all of this was surpassed by the sales associate who made sure I was trying on the proper size. Before departing the studio, I placed an order for two pairs of the Demi: one in black and another in navy/black. Having my shopping sent to me felt luxurious, like an experience from an era long gone.

When my Demi flats arrived, I put them to work right away. My two original pairs have since been put out of commission; they’re sitting in my closet awaiting new insoles. I recently purchased the style in platinum. In fact, I’m wearing them as I write this. They look pretty in the light of my desk lamp. Not only does the style’s low vamp accommodate my high instep, but the insole is comfortable and cloud-like. It has a little bit of a heel (not including the inside padding, I measured about a half inch). The grosgrain drawstring that is mean to be tied in a bow on top of the vamp isn’t just for show; it also functions. A feat of engineering indeed!

Works Sighted

Margaux Demi flats (platinum); Brooks Brothers Red Fleece skirt (old)