Flipsters Explained

Flipsters (flɪp-stərs) are folding shoes, designed in Australia by L&M Designs. The footwear is produced in two styles: flip-flops and ballet flats. Flipsters footwear fold into a pouch which can be fit into a handbag and act as an alternative to standard shoes.[1] The product is designed to "fit into a small handbag to give stiletto-shoed feet a break"[2] The flip-flops are made with a 3-part rubber sole and fabric heel guard that allows the shoe to collapse flat, and while expanded provides support and structure similar to a standard flip flop. Flipsters come in a pouch designed to keep the product protected and clean. The product was designed with a triangle fold designed to mimic the motion of natural walking.[3] Matt Schmidt, Editor at "My Life News", described the innovative flipflop as "stylish and comfy".[4]

History

Flipsters were created in 2009 by law student Ben Lipschitz and industrial designer Rick Munitz under the company L&M Designs. In addition to its website, Flipsters are found in retail shops across Australia, and the product is also exported to a number of other countries outside of Australia.[5]

In May 2010 Flipsters was used to promote the Volkswagen's new product line, "The Polo". The founders of Flipsters were invited by the company to speak about design and comfort due to Volkswagen's intention to convey those message.[6] Unfortunately it has become impossible recently, to buy these flip-flops from US retailers that used to supply them.

In the media

Flipsters has featured on The Morning Show and Sky Business News as well as a number of women’s and lifestyle media including NW, That’s Life, mX, The Sun Herald Sunday Life and Woman's Day online.[7]

External links

Notes and References

  1. http://www.flipsters.com.au/content_common/pg-what-are-flipsters.seo/ Flipsters
  2. http://in.reuters.com/article/us-australia-flipflops-idINTRE59615X20091007 Reuters - Flipsters fit into a small handbag
  3. http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/with_flipsters_aussie_ider_and_law_student_hit_success_in_just_one_year_17679.asp How the business started
  4. http://www.mylifemynews.com.au/521/flip-flops-to-go-anywhere-introducing-new-flipsters-footwear/ Introducing new footwear
  5. http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/with_flipsters_aussie_ider_and_law_student_hit_success_in_just_one_year_17679.asp Success in just one year Core77 - Flipsters exports worldwise and services Australia
  6. http://australia.to/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4630:a-pair-of-aussies-taking-the-next-step&catid=130:business&Itemid=178 Flipsters used in Volkswagen promotion campaign
  7. http://www.wordstorm.com.au/case-studies/fashion/flipsters.html Word Storm featuring Flipsters
  8. https://archive.today/20130105173309/http://au.tv.yahoo.com/the-morning-show/fact-sheets/article/-/8520588/christmas-gift-ideas-budget/ Gifts under $30
  9. http://www.mxnet.com.au/ Contributors to Ovarian Cancer Research
  10. http://www.dynamicexport.com.au/export/starting/young-exporters-foldable-thongs-6687/ Revolutionists in footwear
  11. Web site: Melbourne Cup Outfit Recommendations . 2012-02-24 . https://web.archive.org/web/20110217223101/http://digitaledition.wentworthcourier.com.au/default.aspx?iid=41915&startpage=page0000054#folio=054 . 2011-02-17 . dead .
  12. Web site: Flipsters provide comfort over high heels . 2012-02-24 . https://web.archive.org/web/20111003060122/http://aca.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=872589 . 2011-10-03 . dead .
  13. http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/aussie-duo-design-fold-up-thongs-for-nights-on-the-town/story-e6frez7r-1225783563921 Small footprint