About the Ginger Collection
The Ginger is a Mary Jane built on traditional Friulane construction — the same handcraft that has shaped shoes in the Friuli region of northeastern Italy for generations. The upper is soft cotton velvet. The lining is cotton. The sole is thin, flexible recycled rubber that stays pliable underfoot and light enough to fold into a bag. A slim instep strap with a small buckle keeps the shoe close without any stiffness — adjusted once, it holds its fit.
Friulane shoes have been made by hand in northeastern Italy since the 19th century, originally worn by Venetian gondoliers and farmers who needed something soft, quiet, and durable. The Ginger takes that same construction logic and applies it to the mary jane silhouette: a shape defined by the strap across the instep, which has remained unchanged since the early 1900s. Together, the result is a shoe that feels grounded in something real rather than assembled for trend.
Colorways
The Ginger collection rotates through limited seasonal velvets. Current colorways include Rosso (a warm, saturated red), Verde Oliva (muted olive that shifts between green and grey in different light), Ocra (earthy yellow-ochre, closer to old gold than canary), and Blu Scuro (deep navy, the most versatile of the four). Bicolor editions pair a velvet body with contrasting piping — Topo/Peonia (grey with deep rose trim) and Caffe/Petrolio (warm brown with teal). When a colorway sells out, it doesn't always return.
Sizing and Fit
The Ginger is available in whole US sizes and runs true to size. The adjustable strap gives approximately half a size of flexibility in either direction — if you're between sizes, size down. The cotton lining softens slightly over the first few wears and the shoe settles to your foot. If you're unsure, write to us before you order.
Care
Cotton velvet is resilient but needs a little attention. Brush the nap regularly with a soft-bristle brush, always in the direction of the pile. If the velvet becomes slightly crushed, hold it briefly over steam and brush gently while the fibers are warm — the pile recovers. For stains, blot immediately with a dry cloth and never rub. Store in the dust bag, away from direct sunlight, which shifts velvet color over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these true velvet mary janes? Yes — the upper is 100% cotton velvet, not synthetic. Cotton velvet has more depth, more texture variation, and ages better than polyester alternatives.
Can I wear them every day? Yes. The flexible sole and cotton construction make them comfortable for extended wear. Many customers wear them as their primary flat.
Do they work for travel? The flexible sole folds flat in a bag. They weigh almost nothing. Many customers wear them as their travel shoe — through airports, on city days, and in the evening.
Are they made in Italy? Yes. Every pair is handcrafted in Friuli, northeastern Italy.
