KASHURA | Ballerina High Shoe - Poppy-Grey

The KASHURA Ballerina Ballerina High Poppy-Grey shoe is a study in deliberate contradiction—a hybrid silhouette that marries the delicate lineage of the ballet flat with the architectural heft of a high-top. Its defining feature is the elongated ankle shaft, which transforms a traditionally demure shape into something with presence and attitude. This is not a shoe that whispers; it announces its construction with every line, from the rounded toe to the lace-up closure that climbs the instep. The colorway, a nuanced poppy-grey, offers a muted yet distinct alternative to stark neutrals, lending itself to both tonal and contrasting wardrobes. The tactile experience begins with the upper, handcrafted from a 60% viscose and 40% cotton blend. This composition yields a crocheted surface that feels textural and breathable, with a soft, almost gauzy hand that belies its structural intent. The open weave of the crochet creates a subtle play of light and shadow across the foot, while the unlined interior allows the fabric to sit directly against the skin, offering a barefoot-like sensation that is rare in a closed shoe. The calf leather insole provides a smooth, supple counterpoint to the textile upper, grounding the piece with a touch of luxury where it matters most. Fit is true to size, with the lace closure offering precise adjustability across the midfoot and ankle. The 5 mm heel is negligible in height but crucial in effect—it elevates the sole just enough to separate the foot from the ground, preserving the flat’s ease while adding a whisper of lift. The rubber sole ensures grip, making this a shoe that is as functional as it is decorative. The construction, entirely handmade, speaks to a deliberate slowness; each stitch and loop is a record of craft, not machine efficiency. This is a shoe built for movement, not stillness. In motion, the Ballerina High reveals its duality. The crochet fabric flexes with the foot, allowing natural articulation, while the high shaft creates a gentle cradle around the ankle. It is a silhouette that works across seasons: wear it with bare legs and a linen dress in summer, or layer it over sheer tights with a wool mini in autumn. The effect is always intentional, never precious. Pair it with wide-leg trousers to contrast volume against the tapered ankle, or with a sculptural midi skirt to echo the shoe’s architectural lines. This is a piece that rewards a considered wardrobe—one that understands proportion and texture as the true luxuries.