By Adriana Rodriguez @timeforfashionelle
Collages: @ArantxaRueda
With inherent classicism and femininity in their purest forms, ballerinas are making a strong comeback as part of the fashion trends proposed for spring 2021. And this may just be the best possible for time for their comeback: the context generated by the global pandemic demands a comfortable shoes to suit the new lifestyle that most of us have embraced with working from home and more home-based leisure and free time activities than ever.
Femininity and natural elegance
This season, Gaimo reflects the aesthetic legacy of the dance, taking those gentle, natural, fluid movements and translating them into a beautiful ballerina collection, not forgetting their instantly recognisable simple artisan hallmark: the jute sole. With this in mind, the artisan shoe company set out to reinterpret this beautiful delicate shoe with an aesthetic that incorporates comfortable, soft materials that adapt to fit the foot like a second skin and imbue every step with a natural elegance. The perfect way to interpret the first warm rays of sunshine.
The designs are discernibly clean and simple, but the essence of each one is a distillation of details and elements that make them very special: flexible lasts are created with quality extra-soft materials to give shape to ballerinas that gently hug the foot, supple suedes and napa leathers that make use of the leather’s natural ruching for subtle volume and a minimalist twist provided by stretch throats.
A touch of novelty? This season, the company is introducing a new square-toed platform that slims without compromising on comfort. Unique details such as crochet, hand-crafted artisan fabrics, Liberty London print ribbons to tie gently at the ankle, as well as an evocative palette of neutral tones that create a perfect timeless feel, all complete the formula for Gaimo’s new ballerinas.
Looks with jute ballerinas: style them your way
It’s so easy to fall in love with their versatility and natural classic beauty, but how does the intricacy of these jute ballerinas work with everyday looks? How can they be interpreted and adapted to every woman’s individual style? Minimalist, laid-back, boho… We’ve explored various styles and defined some keys to wearing them, effortlessly, based on the style or aesthetic you most identify with.
French style
You love French women’s effortless-chic vibe, which is why you’re faithful to classic apparel that never goes out of fashion, such as the marinière, a good vintage-cut jacket or a mohair cardigan. With cheerful printed wrap-around ribbons to tie at the ankle, Fiona embodies the definitive touch required for that much-desired French je ne sais quoi.
Romantic
You’re inclined towards soft floral prints, embroidery, chantilly laces, wherever possible, on a pretty long or short dress, to lift your spring mood. The Mabelle style, created in an intricate ivory crochet with satin ribbons, promises to be your go-to for your most naif styles to add that extra special touch.
Bohemian
A free spirit drawn to maxi dresses in ditsy floral or paisley prints, fringes, fedora hats, suede waistcoats and leather belts. Give your cowboy boots and ankle boots a break and replace them with the Mitsy ballerinas, in natural leather, wrap-around ribbons to tie at the ankle and an extra-comfortable platform to add style to your every step.
Laid-back natural
Natural linen, organic cotton, neutral colours… Natural and flowing fabrics are your daily go-to and comprise your style hallmark. Try completing your look with the Petra ballerina in a versatile nude tone that will work with your entire summer wardrobe.
Minimalist
Less is more. Black and white, plentiful neutral hues and silhouettes that sit cleanly and simply on the body. For warmer days, we turn to the simple lines of the Meda ballerina in white to project brightness with each step, or black to provide the perfect touch of simplicity and elegance for any of your spring looks.
