I haven’t really thought about it before, but it makes complete sense that the footwear industry was directly impacted by the pandemic. With people homebound, the need for a proper pair of shoes dropped.
But now as we’re frolicking back out into the world, our shoe cabinet needs an update too. Luckily for us, Malaysia is home to many homegrown shoe brands, and I’m not just talking about the ones from Jimmy Choo, Christy Ng, or Bonia. Here are some other local names in the shoe industry that offer a variety of styles and comfort for women.
1. My Ballerine
Featuring a more feminine and delicate style, My Ballerine carries flats, sandals, heels, sneakers, and more. The simple and classy designs have garnered the brand a sizable following online, and it has even collaborated with big names like Disney and Mattel to release unique collections.
Price: RM69.90 to RM129.90.
Delivery time: Orders are processed within three business days. Deliveries to major cities take two to four days, while other areas may need four to six days.
Where to buy: Website, Zalora, Shopee
2. Larrie
This Kuala Lumpur-based brand has been in the footwear business for over 40 years. Many shoes from Larrie feature soft, cushioned insoles for added comfort. From flats and sneakers to wedges and heels, Larrie covers a wide range of styles to suit various preferences.
Price: RM99 to RM159.
Delivery time: Three to five working days.
Where to buy: Website, Zalora, Shopee, Lazada
3. Amori
Established in 2002, Amori is a shoe label that proudly adopts current fashion trends while still catering to those who enjoy classic designs. Bolder products include boot sneakers (the ones that look like socks), though some classic casual pumps and sandals are also available.
Price: RM139 to RM419.
Delivery time: Three to five working days for West Malaysia, seven to ten days for East Malaysia.
Where to buy: Website, Parkson, Shopee
4. Qaysut
Qaysut is a line of shoes under the brand, Qaysaa, which focuses on clothing for modern Muslim women. The shoe collection is minimal and comes in an array of trendy shades such as mustard, dusty green, ash blue, and more.
Price: RM39 to RM79.
Delivery time: N/A.
Where to buy: Website
5. Machino
According to its website, Machino’s team spent 180 days of R&D to design the “most comfortable shoes possible”. Machino features many heels, which are known to be uncomfortable after prolonged wear, but the brand’s insole sponges supposedly help provide support.
Machino carries shoes that have unique Malaysian-inspired patterns as well as simple, everyday selections. Most of its shoes are made-to-order.
Price: RM118 to RM348.
Delivery time: 10 to 15 days.
6. Ijmal
Self-described as a brand for “comfort footwear for cool Hijabis”, Ijmal sells flat shoes and sandals in various earthy colours. According to Facebook, Ijmal’s shoes are crafted for prolonged walking and standing, so they should be pretty comfortable.
Price: RM129 to RM249.
Delivery time: N/A.
7. Madre
Madre, which means “mother” in Spanish, was founded in 2013 with an emphasis on stylish and comfortable shoes. The brand carries heels, wedges, flats, and sandals in a wide assortment of styles and colours.
Price: RM79 to RM189.
Delivery time: Three to seven working days.
8. Lyden
Originally a brand that traded and supplied shoes to local retailers and distributors, Lyden has since shifted to creating its own shoe brand. According to its website, Lyden believes all ladies deserve a pair of valuable black shoes, such as the ones from Lyden that feature cushioned insoles.
Price: RM29 to RM109.
Delivery time: Orders are processed within two to three business days. Estimated drop-off times are two to three business days.
9. Nelissa Hilman
Established in 2012, this proudly Malaysian label features stylish shoes that are handcrafted locally. Nelissa Hilman, the founder of the eponymous brand, was a chemical engineer before she decided to pursue shoemaking.
Nelissa Hilman features interesting colourways such as mauve, mint green, blush, latte, and other neutral yet interesting shades.
Price: RM198 to RM488.
Delivery time: Seven business days.
Where to buy: Website
- Read other articles we’ve written about Malaysian-based footwear here.
Featured Image Credit: Qaysaa / Machino / Madre
