Grossi Florentino was the perfect setting for the launch of Ballettonet, a Melbourne based label bringing Italian luxury footwear to an Australian audience.
When Steph and Ben decided to start Ballettonet, they knew the heritage of the Italian manufacturers they’d chosen was going to be integral to their own family run business.
They met with the families behind each of the brands, many of which have been in operation for several generations and worked to form a collection of styles and finishes that would work well in the Australian market.
“You cannot divorce the end product from how it was made and the people who made it. We fell in love with the European approach to business; very enterprising and also family-centric with the business knowledge and skills passed down from generation to generation,” Stephanie told me.
With brands like H&M and Uniqlo set to imminently launch in Melbourne, it was just so special to see an independent brand like Ballettonet make its mark. I sincerely hope we see more and more from them in years to come.
Photos: Heather Lighton