Inside the Studio: Creating the Autumn Housewarming Collection

06 Mar 2025

Hello, Autumn. Step inside the House of FRANKIE4—our Housewarming Collection is ready to welcome you. Want to know what went into creating it? We're unlocking the design room doors for an exclusive Q&A with the team who brought this cosy collection to life.

To give you an exclusive peek into the creative process behind the designs of Housewarming, we sat down with the incredible team who brought this collection to life: Gabrielle Thompson (Director of Footwear), Catherine Kingdon (Product Development Manager), Rosie Jamieson (Associate Director of Technical Footwear), and Hannah Trotman (Product Developer). Here’s what they had to say about this cosy, stylish drop.

Q: Let’s start with the inspiration behind the Housewarming Collection. What does ‘Housewarming’ mean to you all, and how did that translate into the designs?

Catherine: “For us, Housewarming is all about welcoming something new and making it your own. When designing for autumn, we wanted to capture that sense of comfort and luxury—and have it all under one roof. It’s a fresh start, but with a comforting, familiar vibe that feels like home. Whether you’re gathering with friends around the dinner table or relaxing with a good book, we wanted these shoes to be the perfect style for every moment.”

Rosie: “It’s about creating shoes that feel like home. FRANKIE4 is all about empowering women with support and style, so we wanted to elevate that sensation with this collection. Think luxurious materials, rich tones, and a mix of textures that embody warmth. The goal was to make shoes that are as cosy as they are chic—where every step feels like the perfect fit.”

Gabrielle: “We also wanted to make sure the collection spoke to the idea of ‘gentle living.’ Autumn is a season where we slow down a little, spend time with loved ones, and embrace the simple pleasures. Our shoes reflect that grounded, effortless vibe, while still providing the premium comfort and podiatrist-designed support that FRANKIE4 is known for.”

Q: There are so many beautiful design elements in this collection, for example the conscious choice of materials like patent leather, bouclé, and suede. Can you share more about how those features came to be?

Hannah: “We really wanted to blend luxury with practicality, so when selecting materials like patent leather, bouclé, and suede, it was important to choose textures that feel both timeless and fresh. The touch of bouclé in Axel's cosy mix, for example, adds a luxe, elevated touch while remaining soft and cosy. Each material was chosen to create a perfect harmony of comfort, style, and versatility.”

Rosie: “The neutrals in this collection are just stunning—we aimed for a palette that feels grounded and versatile, but still sophisticated. Shadow in rye suede and Sage in camel tumbled are the perfect examples of this. They’re those colours you can wear with everything, and they work so well with the autumn vibe. We also added hints of shades like eucalyptus and navy for a touch of contrast, giving the collection depth. Together, it’s a balanced, harmonious mix that feels fresh for the season.”

Gabrielle: “We also paid special attention to the texture of the materials. The mix of soft suedes, smooth leathers, and luxe, cosy fabrics create that elevated yet easy-going vibe. It’s like being wrapped in a blanket with a hot cup of tea—cosy and decadent. And with additions like Foxx in white tumbled and Liberty in black tumbled, we’ve added even more luxurious textures to complete the classics in the collection."

Q: This drop feels very much like it’s rooted in quiet luxury. Can you expand on how you achieved that understated elegance in the collection?

Catherine: “Quiet luxury is really about subtlety—it's focusing on the details, beautiful finishes that aren’t too flashy, but still feel premium. For example, the new hardware on the Brooklyn and the studded details on the fresh Billie colourways add just the right amount of edge, enhancing the sleekness of the shoes without overpowering them.”

Rosie: "Exactly, everything is consciously crafted. For example, with Cleo, we’ve really captured that perfect balance of comfort and French-inspired style in three beautiful colourways. It’s luxury that feels natural and easy to wear—like slipping into something that just works, with features that support your feet all day without ever feeling fussy. It’s the kind of elegance that’s as much about how the shoes make you feel as how they look.”

Hannah: “I was just thinking the perfect example of this quiet luxury is the new arrival, Kai. So sleek, refined, and effortlessly elegant. The silhouette is polished, but the plush underfoot feel makes it a dream to wear. It’s the kind of heel that looks sophisticated yet feels unbelievably comfortable—perfect for elevating any autumn look.”

Gabrielle: "Hepburn is one of my favourites because it feels like true quiet luxury. The Mary Jane design is timeless, but what really makes it stand out is it’s supportive with that style star power. With pressure-relieving lining and a custom fit too, it’s all about groundbreaking effortless style and all-day wearability."

Q: With the Housewarming theme in mind, how does this collection complement the everyday lifestyle? What kind of woman do you envision wearing these shoes?

Gabrielle: “We designed this collection with versatility in mind—styles that work for both laid-back weekends and everything in between. It’s for women who want to feel effortlessly put-together while finding the perfect match for their style and schedule.”

Rosie: “It’s about owning your look. The Housewarming Collection isn’t just trendsetting—it’s about timeless pieces that seamlessly blend into your wardrobe. These shoes are meant to be worn from day to night, dressed up or down. It’s all about the balance of style and function.”

Hannah: “We envision a woman who’s confident in her choices, someone who embraces comfort without compromising style. These shoes offer that ‘second-skin’ feel, supporting her all day while looking chic with every step.”

Q: With Autumn Drop II just out, what can customers expect from this new drop?

Catherine: “Autumn Drop II is here, and we couldn’t be more excited for you to experience it! This drop expands on the themes we introduced in the first Housewarming drop—more luxe finishes and additional colour options to help you transition smoothly into the colder weather. We’ve also introduced new silhouettes that complement the laid-back, luxe vibe of autumn.”

Gabrielle: “You’ll see some really beautiful, versatile styles that are perfect for layering, pairing beautifully with your autumn wardrobe. We’ve also kept the focus on comfort and support, of course, so you’ll get that signature FRANKIE4 feeling, no matter which style you choose.”

Q: There are so many beautiful design elements in this collection, for example the conscious choice of materials like patent leather, bouclé, and suede. Can you share more about how those features came to be?

Rosie: “I’m so excited for the community to experience the sheer comfort and luxury of these shoes. When you wear them, you’ll feel like you’ve found your true style sanctuary. It’s not just about how they look—it’s about how they make you feel. That’s what we’re most proud of.”

Hannah: “The textures, the softness, the fit—it’s all designed to make you feel at home in your own shoes. It’s that feeling of stepping into a new season and knowing that your shoes will carry you through every moment with ease.”

With the Housewarming Collection and the fresh drop of Autumn Drop II, autumn just became the season of comfort, style, and a true sense of home. Whether you're embracing the cosy luxury or adding brand-new silhouettes to your wardrobe, these shoes are here to carry you through every step of the season.

Stay tuned for even more, and in the meantime, we invite you to step inside and make yourself at home in the House of FRANKIE4.

EXPLORE THE HOUSEWARMING COLLECTION

4. Sunlit & Spirited: Solana, High Summer 2025

Comfort feels even better when it’s shared. This year, we launched the FRANKIE4 Referral Program: give a friend who's new to FRANKIE4 15% off their first full-priced pair and with each successful referral, be rewarded with $20 off your next full-priced pair*. It’s our way of saying thank you for helping our community grow (because real friends don’t let friends wear uncomfy shoes).

Sign up, refer, and get rewarded here.

(*T&Cs apply, those a part of our Healthcare Professional and Educator Privilege Programs can stack their perks).

7. Expanding the LuxaLite® Collection

LuxaLite® is our most slimline footbed tech, bringing enhanced, longer-lasting comfort to the fashion silhouettes you love. Now featured in selected FRANKIE4 heels and slides, LuxaLite® makes it easier than ever to enjoy lightweight, stylish footwear without compromising on wearability. From busy office days to off-duty weekend moments and nights out, it’s comfort designed to keep up with your life, and your wardrobe.

Learn more and explore the collection here.

8. Celebrating 15 Years In-Store

This year, FRANKIE4 turns 15, and our stores remain an important foundation of the brand. From personalised fittings to tips on styling, our team offers expert, friendly guidance, letting women try, feel, and fall in love with FRANKIE4 comfort firsthand. Today, we have nine stores across Australia and a flagship store in Seattle, USA. It’s where style meets comfort, and where our community continues to grow—one pair at a time.

Find your closest store here.

9. Recognised as the Best Place to Work

In August 2025, FRANKIE4 was honoured by the Australian Fashion Industry Awards as the Best Place to Work. It’s a recognition of our passionate, dedicated team and the culture we’ve built—one that values collaboration, creativity, and wellbeing. Behind every pair of FRANKIE4 shoes is a community of people committed to making comfort and style accessible, enjoyable, and inspiring.

10. Launching Beach-Proof Designs

A milestone our community couldn’t celebrate enough: we launched beach-proof styles, including Isla and Venice. Made from waterproof-treated leather and featuring our podiatrist-designed Sole Hero® Footbed, they provide heel, arch, and forefoot support. Designed to take you from the beach or pool to the bar, these styles combine style and functionality in every step.

Shop our beach slides here.

13. Amy Gerard: The Perfect Fit for FRANKIE4

Presenter, author, brand ambassador, and mother of three, Amy Gerard continues to embody the vibrant and empowering energy of our collections. Over the past year, she’s become a true face of FRANKIE4, bringing her natural love for the brand and her down-to-earth nature to every campaign and event.

Known for her authentic approach to fashion, lifestyle, and wellness—alongside her work as a radio host, influencer, writer, creator of At Last Wine, and presenter of the hit podcasts Beyond The Likes and Beyond the Chaos—Amy has built a loyal community by sharing content that resonates on a deeply relatable level.

“I’ve been wearing FRANKIE4s for years and love what the brand stands for,” Amy shared. “Celebrating the collection with such a warm, welcoming community was an amazing experience.”

14. Making Headlines: Seen on Stars and in the Press

You may not know that FRANKIE4 has been spotted on some seriously stylish feet. Kelly Clarkson wore our Ava boots on multiple occasions on The Kelly Clarkson Show and also for the tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center in New York City. Joey King stepped out in FRANKIE4’s Octavia Black Loafers during the Ed Asner 4th Annual Stage Celebrity Reading of It’s a Wonderful Life at the Garry Marshall Theatre in Burbank, California, benefiting The Ed Asner Family Center.

More recently, Kelcey Wetterberg, former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, shared her experience with FRANKIE4 while wearing Riley II in White/Blue in a partnered TikTok video.

Our designs have also found other A-lister fans and been seen in glossy magazines. Over the years, we've been featured by Vogue, Marie Claire, Harper’s BAZAAR, and more, shining a spotlight on FRANKIE4’s unique blend of style and comfort.

See more here.

15. Inclusive Sizing, Always

Starting with our original Ellie, we’ve expanded from a single sneaker to a diverse collection of heels, sandals, sneakers, slides, boots, and flats. From day one, size inclusivity has been central to our mission of supporting women’s wellbeing worldwide—which is why we offer a wide range of sizes from 5 to 13. Because everyone deserves to find their perfect fit and enjoy the comfort and style of FRANKIE4.

Find out more about our sizing here.

Stepping into the Future

As we celebrate fifteen years, we remain committed to comfort, style, and positive impact: because every step we take, we take together with our FRANKIE4 community.

Step into the world of fashion and functionality with our curated collection of footwear blogs, where style meets comfort every step of the way.

Inside the Studio: Creating the Autumn Housewarming Collection

Q: Let’s start with the inspiration behind the Housewarming Collection. What does ‘Housewarming’ mean to you all, and how did that translate into the designs?

Q: There are so many beautiful design elements in this collection, for example the conscious choice of materials like patent leather, bouclé, and suede. Can you share more about how those features came to be?

Q: This drop feels very much like it’s rooted in quiet luxury. Can you expand on how you achieved that understated elegance in the collection?

Q: With the Housewarming theme in mind, how does this collection complement the everyday lifestyle? What kind of woman do you envision wearing these shoes?

Q: With Autumn Drop II just out, what can customers expect from this new drop?

Q: There are so many beautiful design elements in this collection, for example the conscious choice of materials like patent leather, bouclé, and suede. Can you share more about how those features came to be?

4. Sunlit & Spirited: Solana, High Summer 2025

7. Expanding the LuxaLite® Collection

8. Celebrating 15 Years In-Store

9. Recognised as the Best Place to Work

10. Launching Beach-Proof Designs

13. Amy Gerard: The Perfect Fit for FRANKIE4

14. Making Headlines: Seen on Stars and in the Press

15. Inclusive Sizing, Always

Stepping into the Future

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