Butterfly Twists

For a footwear brand that has captured the imagination of thousands women in the UK and across the world, Butterfly Twists had an unlikely start in fashion life. In 2007, two brothers and their two oldest school friends made a bet that saw the unluckiest of them attending a party in a pair of six inch statement stilettos. What started as a joke, however, gave the boys – Emmanuel Eribo, Frank Eribo, Mark Quaradeghini and Philippe Homsy – the idea that would change their lives. A new found solidarity with the women enduring evenings out in towering heels started a conversation about footwear that might deliver a little glamour, without ruining a good night out.

While the loser of the bet, who shall remain anonymous, had no desire to reacquaint himself with the practise of wearing women's shoes, he and the circle decided to do their bit for women's feet by launching a new line of flats that combined a little fabulousness with a freedom of movement and consideration for comfort. They didn't have any experience in fashion, or footwear, but one good idea and four enthusiastic workers decided they didn't have anything to lose either.

It took two years for the boys to assemble a design team who could combine a consideration for style and luxury with comfort and versatility, and source manufacturers who could patent the featherweight, flexible soul that the brand would become known for. The collection debuted in London in 2009, dedicated to the aching toes and glamour-cravings of its most stylish inhabitants.

The boys don't wear women's shoes anymore, but if they did, they would make a pair of Butterfly Twists their first choice.