Handcrafted in Australia, Built to Last
At Matilda Life, we believe the best shoes are the ones you wear again and again, timeless pieces that feel like a natural extension of your everyday wardrobe. Our footwear collection is crafted in Australia, rooted in heritage, craftsmanship and a commitment to quality that’s evident with every step.
What makes our shoes truly special? It’s a combination of ethically sourced kangaroo leather, handmade production in Thornbury, Melbourne, and a remarkable story of revival and resilience, all tied to one iconic maker: Anna Fiori.
The Heart of Our Shoes: Anna Fiori in Thornbury
The Anna Fiori factory has been part of Australia’s footwear legacy since the 1960s. Founded by Caterina Angerosa, an Italian immigrant whose passion for shoe-making began on factory floors and blossomed into a lifelong craft, Anna Fiori became known for shoes built around fit, comfort, and timeless style rather than fleeting trends.
Once producing for major Australian retailers and beloved local brands, the factory faced the same pressures that closed many Australian workshops. But when Matilda Life began envisioning an Australian footwear collection, we found a partner in Anna Fiori, smaller in scale but rich in skill, heritage and passion. Together, we revived local production so that beautiful, locally-made shoes could flourish once again in Thornbury.
Today, Caterina and her family, including son Rick, one of Australia’s most respected artisans, continue to handcraft every pair with attentive care and expertise.
Why Kangaroo Leather? Beauty + Strength in Every Step
A defining feature of our best-selling shoes is the use of premium kangaroo leather, one of the finest natural materials available for footwear. Kangaroo leather is exceptionally light yet incredibly strong, offering a supple feel that softly moulds to your foot while standing up to daily wear.
Because of its structure, with highly uniform fibre bundles, kangaroo leather retains high tensile strength even when made thin, making shoes feel both elegant, soft, and durable.
Sourced responsibly within Australia, the leather we use is a by-product of the meat industry that would otherwise go to waste, a mindful choice that aligns with a more sustainable approach to fashion.
Our Favourite Styles, Made to Wear, Loved to Keep
Here’s a glimpse into three of our beloved styles, all handmade in Thornbury with care and beautiful kangaroo leather:
Sorrento Sneaker
The everyday classic, the Sorrento Sneaker brings effortless sophistication to casual dressing. Crafted with a soft kangaroo leather upper and lining, it feels lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for long days on your feet.
Designed with comfort in mind, it features a removable insole, making it suitable for those who prefer to wear their own orthotics. The natural latex outer sole provides gentle cushioning and flexibility, offering all day comfort without compromising on timeless style.
Shop the Sorrento Sneaker
Elwood Shoe
Structured yet soft, the Elwood Shoe brings polished ease to every outfit, from tailored pants to linen dresses. With its refined silhouette and exquisite leather crafting, it’s a versatile pair you’ll reach for again and again.
Discover the Elwood Shoe
Lily Slide
Perfect for warm days and relaxed weekends, the Lily Slide pairs classic minimalism with comfort you can feel. The kangaroo leather strap feels soft against the skin and age beautifully with wear.
Explore the Lily Slide
Made with Heart, Worn with Joy
Each pair in this collection carries the same commitment to craftsmanship, comfort and timeless design. From premium kangaroo leather to carefully constructed soles, every detail is considered to ensure lasting quality and an exceptional fit. These are shoes designed to support you season after season, without chasing trends.
Whether you are walking to work, heading out for lunch, or enjoying a slow weekend stroll, feel the confidence that comes from footwear made with intention and care, right here in Australia.
Discover our Australian made footwear collection.
