Care and Maintenance of Velvet Friulane Shoes
Friulane shoes — also known as scarpez, papusse, or furlane — originated in the mountains of Friuli, Italy. Peasant women, skilled in creating clothes and accessories from whatever materials they had on hand, pieced together leftover fabric strips to craft comfortable slippers.
Over time, these women brought their creations to Venice, where gondoliers adopted them for their comfort and stability while standing on wooden gondolas. Venice even dedicated a street, Calle dei Furlani, to the Friuli people, cementing the Friulane’s reputation as the “Gondolier shoe.”
Today, Friulane shoes symbolize artisanal Italian craftsmanship. Their visible seams and hand-stitched soles are a testament to tradition and quality.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance are essential if you want your velvet Friulane shoes to last for years. While they are relatively easy to clean, the delicate fabrics and craftsmanship deserve attention to preserve their character.
How to Clean Velvet Friulane Shoes
To clean your Friulane shoes, use a soft-bristled brush with a small amount of water and Marseille soap. Alternatively, place them in a protective white shoe bag and wash them on a delicate cycle in cold water. Never tumble dry; instead, hang them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Cleaning Tips
Regular cleaning keeps Friulane shoes looking and smelling fresh. Wipe them down with a cloth dipped in diluted liquid laundry detergent, gently scrubbing in circular motions. For insoles, use a toothbrush or soft brush to remove trapped dirt or stains. Sprinkle baking soda inside to absorb odors, or place dryer sheets in the insoles for a few days.
Removing Stains
For stains, mix baking soda and white vinegar with water and gently scrub using a soft brush. Rinse with clean water and allow to air-dry completely. For stubborn stains, a bleach pen may help, but always let the area dry before applying detergent again.
A quality Friulane is more than footwear — it’s a work of art. Designed to balance comfort and elegance, these shoes provide flexibility for everyday wear and style for special occasions.
Friulane Shoes Today
In the world of handcrafted footwear, Friulane shoes — also called Furlanes or Gondolier shoes — are making a global comeback. A perfect hybrid of slipper and ballet flat, they pair as easily with jeans and chinos as with dresses and wool suits. They also serve as a chic, comfortable alternative to high-heeled boots or pumps.
About Mar Soreli
At Mar Soreli, we celebrate the heritage of Friulane shoes. With their non-slip bicycle-tire rubber soles and vibrant colorways crafted by Friuli artisans, these Italian flats bring together comfort, style, and tradition. Feel the difference — shop our Friulane collection to complement your wardrobe.