IMAGE: CHANEL

Gabrielle Chanel created the legendary two-tone slingback in 1957, one that came in a unique combination of beige with a contrasting black toe cap that sought to create a flattering effect of shortening the foot and lengthening the leg. In 1984, Karl Lagerfeld amplified it further when he took over the helm as Artistic Director, launching a similar style that was inspired by the world of dance and gymnastics. It made its debut in Chanel’s Spring-Summer 1984 collection and was subsequently worn by Inès de la Fressange in an advertising campaign shot by Helmut Newton.

The rest, they say, is history

IMAGE: CHANEL

Over time, the beloved style became known as the Ballerina, with classic pieces decorated with a delicate ribbon and finished with a stitched ‘CC’ logo at the toe cap. Its timeless appeal continues to this very day, with fashion-savvy folk opting for it on days when they’re all about comfort without forsaking the style factor. Each ballerina comes with a heel height of 10 mm (1 cm), which gives you a slight bump in height that keeping it from being completely casual. The other plus point lies in the fact that it’s really lightweight, which means you can always pack a pair or two in your luggage and take it with you overseas, switching out to these whenever and wherever.

And for its latest Métiers d’Art 2019 collection, Chanel has introduced several new designs which come in either laminated lambskin, metallic grained calfskin or their timeless tweed. Keeping in line with the collection’s theme of gold and opulence, the pairs come either in full gold, or feature subtle hints of it, as seen in the black or navy blue tweed versions. Priced from SGD920, these ballerinas (along with your favourite bags and leather goods from Karl Lagerfeld’s last collection) are now available at both Chanel boutiques in Singapore.

IMAGES: CHANEL