The Foundation Flat - Tan
An elegant, minimalist ballet flat that feels as good as it looks. Carefully crafted in Italy for everyday wear, these light brown slip-on shoes are cut, sewn, and made by hand from luxurious Italian aniline leather and their shape is defined by the natural curve of the foot. The directional square toe and flattering vamp give the humble ballet pump a simple yet modern update.
MATERIALS & FIT
- If you're in between sizes, please size up
- Have a high instep, or need a wider fit? Contact us for a bespoke pair
- Unsure about fit? Please contact us here for size advice
- 100% Leather upper, lining and insole from LWG-certified partner
- Memory foam padding for extra comfort
- Heel height measures 5mm or 0.2 inches
- Visit our Care Guide for detailed instructions
SHIPPING & RETURNS
ESSEN offers complementary worldwide shipping and returns on all orders over €300.
We’re an Australian brand, but most of our shoes are shipped from Europe. Our warehousing and distribution are deliberately located close to our factories so we can produce only what we need and minimise the total distance your shoes have to travel.
Europe
Standard delivery: 2-4 business days
World
Standard delivery 4-10 business days
Express delivery 3-5 business days
Purchased items can be returned within 14 days of the delivery date.
Please note that import duties and taxes may apply to international orders and are the responsibility of the customer. You can find the full details on our Shipping & Handling page.
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The making of the foundation flat
MADE IN ITALY
Finest Handmade
- EMElizabeth M.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - ChocolateI recommend this productAge Range 35 - 44Size Purchased 39Rated 5 out of 5 stars4 days agoDelectable
I have this shoe in multiple colourways and intend to purchase more. They are the perfect shoe; so comfortable, classic design and will elevate any outfit.
- EMElizabeth M.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - IvoryI recommend this productAge Range 35 - 44Size Purchased 39Rated 5 out of 5 stars4 days agoMy favourite
These are my favourite pair of shoes. Wearing them is like nothing at all. You feel like Audrey Hepburn, tripping lightly around life. They are gorgeously soft and so comfy but ever so stylish. They work with any outfit and any weather (except heavy rain, sadly - waterproof/repellent style coming soon??). Marre works hard to ensure classic designs that will last a lifetime, transparent, ethical and sustainable production and superlative customer service. I am a Essen fan for life.
- JLJean L.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - ChampagneI recommend this productAge Range 65+Size Purchased 39Rated 5 out of 5 stars5 days agoLovely soft leather
This is the second pair of foundation flats that I have bought and these are equally fabulous. I have narrow feet so that are a little loose but extremely comfortable.
- AWAngela W.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - SilverI recommend this productAge Range 45 - 54Usual Size EUR 40 - AUS/US 9 - UK6.5Size Purchased 39Rated 5 out of 5 stars2 weeks agoFlawless Foundation
These shoes are wonderful. Simple perfection. I haven’t worn them yet but when the weather improves I think I’ll be in them a lot. I hope they wear well. If so I’ll be buying the other colours on my wish list. Customer service is also brilliant. My advice would be to read and use the measuring guide to get the correct fit.
- KDKatherine D.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - IvoryI recommend this productAge Range 45 - 54Usual Size EUR 36 - AUS/US 5.5 - UK3.5Size Purchased 37Rated 5 out of 5 stars3 weeks agoStunning Foundation Flats
Love these classic, stylish and comfortable Foundation Flats. The ivory for Spring/Summer is stunning, and wearable with everything. I will be purchasing in other colours.
