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 on all orders over €250.
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
- LBLorraine B.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - IvoryI recommend this productAge Range 55 - 64Usual Size EUR 40 - AUS/US 9 - UK6.5Size Purchased 40Rated 5 out of 5 starsYesterdaySubtle and soft
Essen flats are the best-design, quality and style. Simply beautiful to wear and to admire
- SDSim D.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - ChocolateI recommend this productAge Range 35 - 44Usual Size EUR 41 - AUS/US 10 - UK7Size Purchased 40Rated 5 out of 5 stars2 days agoComfiest shoes
These are the comfiest flats I own. Do yourself favour and invest, you won’t be disappointed
- GLGila L.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - SilverI recommend this productUsual Size EUR 39 - AUS/US 8 - UK5.5Size Purchased 39Rated 5 out of 5 stars1 week agoThere should be 6 stars for these shoes!
My silver Foundation Flats are gorgeous!! Buttery soft leather, beautifully made, beautifully designed, and comfortable! Everything I wanted! So chic! And since I am not a standard fit, they helped me take a true measurement of my foot and made a custom pair for me. I can't tell you how much I love this company. Plus, there is nothing more gratifying than supporting a small female owned business. Their commitment to quality, a smaller impact on the environment, and sincere devotion to their customers has made me a lifelong fan.
- ASArlene S.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - IvoryI recommend this productAge Range 55 - 64Usual Size EUR 42 - AUS/US 10.5 - UK8Size Purchased 41Rated 5 out of 5 stars1 week agoJust fabulous!
Fabulous shoe I need more in all the colours they are just so comfortable.
What was more impressive than the shoes was the service, old fashioned customer care that is so rare these days.
If you are unsure of your size message them first and seek advice, they were able to accommodate my oddly shaped feet with a half size and although I had to wait a couple of weeks it was more than worth it to have shoes that fit me better than any other ballet flats ever have.
- JSJulia S.Verified BuyerReviewingThe Foundation Flat - BlackI recommend this productAge Range 35 - 44Usual Size EUR 37 - AUS/US 6.5 - UK4Size Purchased 37Rated 5 out of 5 stars3 weeks agoVery nice and comfortable
Shoes are very comfortable and timeless.
