Australian women’s comfort footwear brand Frankie4 opens first U.S. store, HQ

A new brand in the U.S. footwear market combines comfort with fashion.

Frankie4 is expanding in the United States — online and in brick-mortar. Founded in 2010 by podiatrists, the Australian women’s comfort footwear brand has opened its first U.S. store, along with its U.S. headquarters, in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle. The store features Frankie4’s full collection of luxe leather footwear, including sneakers, dress flats, sandals, heels and boots. The shoes are designed to help customers address common foot problems.

Customers can book “Bring Your Bubble” events during which they can bring a small group to the store for a private shopping experience while enjoying a glass of champagne. Private, expert fittings are also available.  

The Seattle store is the next step in Frankie4’s expansion following the launch of its U.S. website in 2021. The expansion reflects its commitment to growth on a global scale, the company said.

“We are so excited to bring an already-thriving Australian brand to the US market and could think of no better place than Seattle,” stated Cathy Barnett, CEO global, Frankie4. “The city is known for its product innovators and disruptors, which is exactly what Frankie4 is all about.”

Founded by podiatrists, Frankie4 footwear is designed to alleviate and prevent heel and arch pain, plantar fasciitis and forefoot pain for work, home and play. The brand’s designs are all patented and have design elements registered unique to the brand, the company stated.

“A predominantly women-led brand, we have taken women’s footwear and redesigned shoes specifically for our unique feet—delivering fashion and comfort without sacrificing one over the other,” Barnett added. “We’re looking forward to our continuous growth here in the U.S. market.”