The event highlighted the elegant history of the furlane slipper, showcasing its journey from local artisans to modern luxury footwear.

Vibi Venezia, a fashion brand that marries Italian heritage with modern luxury, hosted a celebratory event highlighting its iconic footwear, the furlane, on Via del Carmine in Venice. This event was organized through a collaboration with Vogue100 and Vera Arrivabene, one of the brand’s co-founders.

The furlane, a type of velvet slipper with a rubber sole, has its roots in 18th-century Friuli, Italy. Originally crafted from leftover fabric and old bicycle tires by local artisans, these slippers were favored by gondoliers for their stability and compatibility with the boats. The style saw further endorsement during World War II when Red Cross nurses appreciated its practicality. Over the years, the furlane transformed into a representation of effortless elegance within Italian culture.

Vibi Venezia was established in 2015 by siblings Viola and Vera Arrivabene with the goal of reimagining the furlane for contemporary audiences. Their initiative quickly gained traction among fashion-forward individuals, including notable figures such as editor Franca Sozzani and influencer Camille Charrière. Among the brand’s high-profile clientele, personalities like Katie Holmes and Kate Moss have also embraced the signature slipper. Vogue editor Alexandra Michler Kopelman credited Vibi Venezia with inspiring her to “get dressed up again” in a post-pandemic world.

The celebration at Vera Arrivabene’s boutique, described as a jewel box among the cobblestones, created an eclectic atmosphere for guests who engaged in lively conversation while enjoying expertly crafted cocktails featuring Campari and an assortment of delicate canapés. Co-hosted by Lucrezia Malavolta from Vogue Italia, the event drew together a stylish crowd, encapsulating the blend of creativity and Venetian allure that characterizes the brand and its heritage.

Source: Noah Wire Services