Repetto for Women

We're all familiar with the Repetto brand, whose reputation is well established. A leader in the manufacture of women's shoes alongside major brands such as Louboutin and Minelli, Repetto has specialized in the world of dance since its creation. In 1947, on the advice of her son Roland Petit, Rose Repetto created her first ballet shoes in her workshop just a stone's throw from the Opera. In 1952, she launched her first advertising campaign, and in 1956, at Brigitte Bardot's request, Rose Repetto created a line of women's ballerinas known as Cinderella ballerinas, which she dedicated to her. In 1959, she opened her first boutique at 22 rue de la Paix, and the new house became a must for the world's greatest prima ballerinas, who stocked up on pointe shoes, demi-pointes, ballerinas and dancewear of all kinds. Given the success of the house, which at the time was known to everyone from the little opera rat to the great dancer of renown, Rose Repetto set up manufacturing in the Dordogne region of France in 1967 to ensure the expansion of production. Jean Marc Gaucher took over the reins in 1999 with the ambition of breathing new life into the company by bringing it back to the forefront. It was during this period that Repetto entered into numerous partnerships, notably with Japanese labels such as Issey Miyake and Yohji Yamamoto, and with Comme Des Garçons in 2004. In 2010, Repetto offered its customers the chance to customize their own ballerinas, giving them a choice of many colors. It was only in 2012 that Repetto launched its first ready-to-wear collection, followed by the launch of its first fragrance in 2013.

We often think of Repetto as the little girl dancer's outfit, but it's not just that. In fact, the brand has diversified to take its place at every level of our dressing room. Repetto clothes express a certain purity, discipline and lightness, representing the grace of the classical dancer. Each Repetto product reveals a subtle, delicate femininity that will sublimate you for any occasion. Repetto is also rooted in exceptional know-how, and the perfect manufacturing gestures have been perpetuated in Dordogne year after year for over 70 years. Know-how and love of the craft are paramount at Repetto, and all our craftsmen share these fundamental values with pride. The company's attention to detail is reflected in the hand-crafting of many products and models. Today, Repetto is one of the symbols of French luxury, a sign of elegance and refinement. The company has won over a female clientele made up of both dancers and lovers of this unique, glittering universe. Constantly renewing itself, the brand has created collections with an incredible imagination that make women dream.

Even though Repetto makes dancewear and outfits, its flagship products remain its shoe collections, and in particular the Cendrillon ballerinas, Zizi richelieus and Michael moccasins, which today are more fashion accessories than shoes. Indeed, in 1956, at Brigitte Bardot's request, Rose Repetto designed ballerina flats that were light and elegant, yet as casual and comfortable as a ballet shoe. They became legendary in a crimson-red color in "Et Dieu créa la femme" (And God Created Woman). Today, they are available in a wide range of colors, from beige and gold to darker shades such as black and navy blue, and in a variety of materials that you'll find at L'Exception. Ballerinas are one of the latest footwear trends, and can be worn with a little black dress or skirt for a chic look, or with jeans for a more glamorous-casual look. Flexible and lightweight, they're the perfect model for ultimate freedom of movement. In the 70s, the second flagship model was released, with Serge Gainsbourg as ambassador, wearing the pair of white lace-up shoes. Created for Zizi Jeanmaire, Rose Repetto's daughter-in-law, this model is now a timeless favorite for men and women. The insole is made from a thick, supple piece of leather, so this range of dress shoes is as comfortable as a pair of slippers. In 2009, it's the turn of Michael's moccasins to triumph. A tribute to the King of Pop, this model was a hit with fashionistas and fans of the star. This pair of shoes in black leather, and especially in smooth leather, offers a certain comfort, so your feet don't hurt, and elegance, fitting in perfectly with the preppy fashion trend. Appealing to men and women alike, this model has become a Repetto essential. We can match them with a suit for an elegant look, or with a more casual look with jeans and socks to break up the overly elegant style. In general, Repetto shoes are essential basics for your wardrobe. Whether you choose heels, straps, derbies or ballerinas, they'll add the finishing touch to your outfit.

All our shoes, whether boots, booties, ballerinas or moccasins, are based on the "cousu retourné" dance technique created by Rose Repetto and still used today in every new collection. The sole is sewn inside out before being turned inside out, providing impressive comfort and suppleness, making them feel like slippers. Our ballet slippers and ballerinas are designed with tradition and craftsmanship to best serve our customers and dancers. As the wearing of shoes has evolved over the generations, with the arrival of sneakers for example, Repetto has had to adapt its know-how to meet customer demands. Repetto craftsmen use quality materials to create the soles and heels to optimize arch comfort, and the finishes are perfect, earning Repetto its worldwide reputation. So don't hesitate to discover some of the new Repetto collections at L'Exception.