Butterfly Twists is a ballet shoe and rain boot brand for women, founded in 2007 and launched in London in 2009 by Emmanuel Eribo, Frank Eribo, Mark Quaradeghini and Philippe Homsy. This unique fashion-forward brand was born after one of them (who remains nameless) knew exactly what it felt like to be in a woman’s shoes after losing a bet and attending a party wearing a pair of 6 inch stilettos...
The Ballet Shoe Story Began...
Butterfly Twists was founded in 2006 by Emmanuel Eribo, Frank Eribo, Mark Quaradeghini and Philippe Homsy - four entrepreneurs who identified a gap in the market for a neat, versatile shoe that was chic as well as swift to slip on. They were early pioneers of a unique technology that allowed the brand's trademark ballet pump design to fold up, and slip into a handbag, or a suitcase – emerging immaculately when required - thanks to their clever design, and effortlessly assimilating with outfits - thanks to their classic style.
After launching in London in 2009, Butterfly Twists quickly gained popularity across the globe – taking 50,000 orders at their first trade show, and acquiring stockists in 50 countries. By 2011, the brand had attracted the notice of the UK Fashion Textiles Awards, and the Butterfly Twists team were delighted to be crowned Best New Exporter, and recognised alongside the likes of Mary Katrantzou and Christopher Raeburn.
While the hallmarks of the brand remained at its core - quality, comfort, and classic, clever design – the collection itself soon expanded from ballet pumps to include elegant slippers, chic pointed flats and durable boots.
In 2013, the brand launched Premium Ballet Shoes - a luxurious line of folding pumps in superlative suedes and pony skins. As the collection expanded, so did its fan base, acquiring support from Cosmopolitan, Elle, Draper’s, Glamour, Grazia and Vogue – and wearers first drawn to their good looks, and subsequently won over by their many comforting qualities.