Shoe brands in Malaysia for fashionable struts
Carrie Bradshaw once said, “The fact is, sometimes it’s really hard to walk in a single woman’s shoes. That’s why we need really special ones now and then to make the walk a little more fun”. Single or not, and women or not, there are many who can vouch for this statement – there simply is something about shoes.
Perhaps it’s the mere sight of the sheer beauty a display of footwear exudes in all their various designs, or maybe it’s the thrill of browsing through a staggering amount of options and carting your favourites. But mostly, it’s the way they make you feel when they hug your feet perfectly, giving you that boost of confidence and the extra jazz in personality you need to elevate your outfit.
And if you’re as shoe-obsessed as we are, why not invest in some homegrown footwear brands to be part of your shoe rack collection?
Our list of 10 Malaysian shoe brands has everything a true shoe lover will need, from casual trendy wears like the Mary Jane pumps to classic pairs that’ll last you years of fashionable struts.
Table of Contents
1. Nose International
Image credit: @noseintl via Instagram
Don’t be fooled by its name – Nose International may be named after a certain facial feature, but designing wearables for your feet are what the brand actually excels in. The powerhouse womenswear label started out way back in 1999, and over two decades in, is still beloved for its stylish, quality, and reasonably priced footwear.
Image adapted from: @noseintl via Instagram
Nose has a trend-conscious approach to its products and marketing efforts, which plays a huge part in what makes its footwear so irresistible.
But the appeal doesn’t rely fully on the aesthetics.
The varied collection of ballerina flats, strappy sandals, slingback heels, and platform loafers, are ideal finishings for any look, be it a casual day out with your girls or a classier office wear. The brand’s collection of flats and pumps are stunning, but level up with the chunky heel range instead, such as the Mary Jane Slingback (RM179.90) or the Wedge Heel Slide (RM152.91).
Contact: Nose International’s website | Instagram
2. Larrie
Image credit: @mylarrieshoes via Instagram
For those who want to look like they’re in their sporty era – without having to actually play a sport – shoe shopping at Larrie would be your best bet. In the age of daintier footwear trends, this Malaysia-based brand offers a refreshing selection of footwear that prioritises practicality with a fashion twist.
Sleek sneakers, cushioned platforms, flats with sporty silhouettes – Larrie has been producing footwear you’ll get endless mileages out of, and still look good as you’re strutting it.
Image credit: @mylarrieshoes via Instagram
The footwear brand’s newest arrivals will have you feeling at the peak of street-style sans all the blisters on your feet.
Angled towards more lived-in neutrals such as ecru, bone, and ivory, the Ladies Lace Up Fit Cushion Sneakers (RM128) and Men Street Style Lace Up Sneaks (RM179) will definitely up your level of cool.
Contact: Larrie’s website | Instagram
3. Yoke & Theam
Image credit: @yokeandtheam via Instagram
Strappy sandals, fisherman sandals, suede clogs – these ultra-comfy and kind-of-ugly-kind-of-stylish footwear we owned in high school are soooooooo back. In fact, we’ll argue that these sustainable slides never really went anywhere.
The brainchild of two sisters, Yoke & Theam makes chic and comfy shoes that are amazing Birkenstock dupes, a less expensive alternative but equally as quality-primed as the ‘Birkens. It champions sustainability and ethical fashion, which shines through its creations – the brand is known for gender-neutral footwear made with animal-friendly and recycled materials that are all sourced locally.
Image adapted from: @yokeandtheam via Instagram
Yoke & Theam’s range of footwear are effortlessly stylish and perfect for daily wear – you’ll want to have them on your shoe rack for the long run.
The Maurice Quilted Slippers (RM152) is a cross between a clog and a bedroom slipper that offers lots of support and gets comfier with each wear, while the Solomon Unisex Sandal (RM135) is a versatile staple that serves both functionality and whole lot of hippie-ness to your fit.
Contact: Yoke & Theam’s website | Instagram
4. Nelissa Hilman
Image credit: @nelissahilman_ via Instagram
It’s hard to believe that Nelissa Hilman’s namesake brand has only been around since 2012. The women-led footwear brand played a huge role in pushing the footwear scene in Malaysia into the spotlight – it feels like it has been around forever.
Famed for its slew of demure and elegant footwear, including low-to-the-ground heels and sky-high chunky ones, as well as strappy stilettos and pointy mules. The shoes highlight intricate artistry and ooze timeless appeal, perfect for corporate girlies and ladies who lunch.
Image adapted from: @nelissahilman_ via Instagram
As for its stance on sustainability, the brand is committed to minimising post-production waste by producing only small batches for every collection, as well as prioritising the exclusive use of premium stock leather sourced from Italian tanneries.
If you’re overwhelmed by the choices, we recommend the Azalea Ruched Pointy Heel Mules (RM368) for a quirkier twist on razor-sharp business pumps that has reclaimed its seat at the fashion table. We also love the Skye Mary Jane Heel Loafers (RM348) that’s both practical and attention-grabbing.
Contact: Nelissa Hilman’s website | Instagram
5. Saoi
Image credit: @saoi.my via Instagram Malaysian shoe brands
A local shoe brand that’ll have Manhattan shoe-geek Carrie Bradshaw squealing with delight – Saoi – pronounced ‘say’ – is for the downtown cool girls who need functional and oh-so-cute shoes that will take them through the day, from the office to dinner to the dancefloor.
Image adapted from: @saoi.my via Instagram
Think it-girl fashion – the label features footwear that’s a charming high-street interpretation of the runway trend, with feminine touches that aren’t saccharinely sweet. There are leopard-printed slingback heels, coquette-core pastel ballet flats, and kitten heels with just the right amount of ladylike detailing like tiny signature bows.
And the brand’s cool factor isn’t tampered by comfort either, with its shoes spotted on countless city roamers.
Image credit: Saoi via website
Saoi’s recent collection features the Serena Orchid Heels (RM189) with the ever-groundbreaking floral you’ll need for spring – it’ll have Miranda Priestly raising her brow in approval.
The heeled sandals are botanic-inspired accessorising at its best, with a large blooming orchid as the centrepiece of the footwear to make any fashion girl’s heart flutter.
Contact: Saoi’s website | Instagram
6. Machino
Image credit: @itsmachino via Instagram
First of all, let’s take the time to appreciate the brand name – Machino is a portmanteau of the words ‘Malay’, ‘Chinese’, ‘Indian’, and ‘Others’, describing the races that make up our nation, Malaysia. We love it.
Now, let’s talk shoes. Machino’s scream comfort. The female-founded brand has been making its modestly-girly sandals since 2020, that are all 100% handcrafted. Its shoe collections have quickly become a go-to for many Malaysian women, thanks to the label’s penchant for thick cushion-y insoles that are specifically engineered to support the arches of the feet.
Image adapted from: @itsmachino via Instagram
Machino’s Dream With Hana flats (RM158) are the cult-favourites, but for something with the same floral adornment and more height, the Always In Hana (RM228) is a great pick. Whichever your buy may be, know that you can be assured of unbelievably comfortable strides in your days ahead.
In other words, great news ladies, we need not sacrifice comfort in the name of style.
Contact: Machino’s website | Instagram
7. Christy Ng
Image credit: @christyngshoes via Instagram
Mastering the classy girl boss look does not mean you’ll have to break your bank when there’s Christy Ng, one of Malaysia’s most beloved ready-to-wear fashion brands.
Since the eponymous brand’s inception in 2012, the shoe brand started as a single footwear stall at the night market. It now creates timeless pieces of footwear and handbags across 12 stores in the country and online globally.
Image adapted from: @christyngshoes via Instagram
When it comes to marrying trend-conscious looks with time-honoured elegance, Christy Ng is a true maestro. Its footwear features clean and pared-down aesthetics – think svelte stilettos in nude palettes, and modest pumps with subtle embellishments like pearl studs and diamond buckles.
Image credit: @christyngshoes via Instagram
For that coy feminine silhouette that exudes a whole lot of class, the Camilla Platform Mules (RM189) makes for a quintessential tried-and-true classic. The Gaia Satin Mules (RM249) is a gorgeous pair that’s even suited for a bridal event, while the Zahra Pearl Mules (RM189) are timeless and trendy in one.
Contact: Christy Ng’s website | Instagram
8. Kulet
Image credit: @kuletstore via Instagram Malaysian shoe brands
Sometimes, our feet just need shoes that fit like a glove – or rather, skin. And this is where Kulet – stylised from the Malay word “kulit” meaning skin – comes in with their range of footwear that are so unobtrusive, they demand attention.
Founded by best-friends-turned-business-partners Aina Syahirah and Julie Anna Kang, the brand is adored for shoes with minimalist silhouettes that seem to have gained mass appeal in the global fashion stage in recent years.
Image adapted from: @kuletstore via Instagram Malaysian shoe brands
In Malaysia, where the weather is warm enough to warrant such airy shoes, Kulet’s offers just a touch more skin with its mesh ballerinas and kitten heels.
These do more than just make you feel like you’re wearing a pair of socks – the sheer ALIZ Pumps Mesh (RM239) and INEZ Kitten Heel in Mesh (RM279) look ultra-luxe with iridescent embellishments, while the metallic finish of the JULIE Heel (RM269) will have you shimmering with every step.
Contact: Kulet’s website | Instagram
9. MariMari
Image credit: MariMari via website
Stylish sandals are the crowned jewel of any tropical wardrobe. And if you’re looking for a breezy, elegant pair that actually holds up to hours of wear and check off all the boxes – style and support – MariMari has oh-so-cute handmade pairs to fall head over heels for.
The brand’s forte is creating high-quality slip-ons that have double-padded cushioned footbed cradling your soles, buttery soft leather, and basically everything podiatry-coded.
Image adapted from: @marimari_official via Instagram
From block-heeled mules to razor-thin stilettos, MariMari will have you swooning over its choices of casual yet refined footwear that can be easily dressed up or down.
The CECE Flats (RM139) has elegant parallel straps and an unfussy silhouette that works with anything and everything – throw on a breezy short set with these sandals to run errands, or pair them with a flared trousers for a fun night out. For a more polished and elegant look, the PIXIE Heel Mules (RM209) are impossibly chic options that can be easily transitioned from a workday commute to an evening out.
Contact: MariMari’s website | Instagram
10. Zeve Shoes
Image credit: @zeveshoes via Instagram
Gentlemen, fret not, we saved the best for last. You can’t go wrong with having a classic Oxford in your arsenal.
If you’re looking for one with a budget-friendly price tag that does not skimp on comfort and durability, Zeve Shoes is where you should be looking at.
As a devotee of Italian shoemaking and craftsmanship, founder Zaid Arif established his artisanal shoe brand in 2011, each piece obliging with burnished calf leather, enduring natural rubber outsoles, and multi-layered shock-absorbing breathable insoles. Zeve’s inclusion on this list comes down to the way in which the brand melds craftsmanship and variety together with a reasonably reflective price tag.
Image adapted from: @zeveshoes via Instagram Malaysian shoe brands
Of course, men can do no wrong with having at least a dapper chocolate-hued, sued or leather unit in your shoe collection, and we suggest Zeve’s Oxford Cap Toe Lace-up (RM339-359) – a sturdy pair with a hint of brogue detailing to casual them up a little – or the Wholecut Oxfords (RM339) that’ll go great with your sleekest black-tie fits.
Image credit: @zeveshoes via Instagram
For a versatile pair that is equal parts dressy and they are casual, the ever-so-reliable loafers will help you puzzle through any and all stylistic head-scratchers, and Zeve has a bevy of options for you to fawn over. A neat pair of Penny Loafer (RM359) will swank out any outfit you pair them with, and the Tassel Loafer (RM359) will give you that dandy and scholarly air for that smart gent look.
Contact: Zeve Shoes’ website | Instagram
Footwear from Malaysian shoe brands
Malaysia may not have birthed a Christian Louboutin and subsequently, his exquisite glossy-red stilettos, but we do have more than enough homegrown designers that makes us feel like Cinderella in our own take of the glass slippers. And thankfully, not at the sacrifice of our collective ankles.
With a plethora of great options to choose from, finding the perfect pair can be tough, but who says you need just one? Start with this curated list of Malaysian shoe brands that’ll help you strut your stuff – from cool up-and-coming labels with their trendy kicks to iconic brands with timeless mainstays.
For more beauty-related articles, here’s 15 best lip stains you can get in Malaysia and 10 sustainable Malaysian fashion brands.
Cover image adapted from: @zeveshoes via Instagram, @noseintl via Instagram & @christyngshoes via Instagram