Who Invented the Ballet Flat?

Ballet

The ballet flat, sometimes known as a skimmer or a ballerina, is a popular style of women’s footwear. It is typically made from lightweight, flexible materials such as leather, canvas or satin and is designed with a rounded toe and either a low heel or no heel at all.

The shoe often features an elasticized strap to keep the foot securely in place and is usually adorned with decorative details such as bows, buckles or ribbon.

The origins of the ballet flat date back to 16th century Italy, when dancers needed comfortable shoes that were easy to maneuver in. They could not wear high-heeled shoes because they would impair their ability to dance on the tips of their toes. Instead, they wore shoes with thick soles and low heels so they could move more freely while performing intricate choreography.

Salvatore Capezio was one of the first shoemakers to create what we know today as the ballet flat. He was born in 1871 in Muro Lucano, Italy and moved to New York City at the age of 16 to pursue his dream of becoming a shoemaker. In 1887 he opened his own shop where he specialized in making custom-made boots for dancers and gymnasts.

Capezio began creating ballet flats in 1932 after being approached by famed Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova who requested a stylish but comfortable shoe that she could wear while performing. Capezio obliged her request and created several styles of ballet flats that were comfortable enough for dancing yet stylish enough for streetwear.

Today, Salvatore Capezio is credited with inventing the modern version of the ballet flat, which has become an iconic fashion staple for women around the world. The shoe has transcended its function as a dance wear accessory and evolved into fashionable everyday footwear for women everywhere.

In conclusion, Salvatore Capezio, an Italian shoemaker who moved to New York City at the age of 16, invented the modern version of the ballet flat. This timeless style remains popular among women today due its combination of comfort, practicality and fashion forward appeal.