We get asked this a lot: "do you do a closed-toe avarca?" For years, the answer was no. The avarca has always been an open sandal by design - that's part of what makes it a Menorcan classic. But so many of you kept asking for a version with fuller coverage that we finally sat down with our artisans in Spain and reimagined it. The result is the Anabel Avarca, and she sold out before we even officially launched her.
Here's everything you need to know about our most premium style yet - what makes her different, how she's made, and how to wear her.
A Sneak Peek That Sold Out
Back in May, we shared a first look at the Anabel Avarca on our Instagram Stories. We hadn't planned to launch for a few more months yet - it was meant to be a quiet preview. Instead, our DMs went wild, and every pair sold out before we could officially say hello. Since then, our workshop in Menorca has been hard at work making sure there are enough pairs for everyone who missed out the first time round. She's back now, and here for good.
What Makes Her Different
The Anabel Avarca is a closed-toe reinvention of the traditional Menorcan avarca. A soft nappa leather upper wraps the foot and curves up into a sweetheart-shaped opening across the top, giving full coverage without losing the elegant, feminine line the avarca is known for. A secure slip-on heel strap keeps everything in place, so there's no fiddling with buckles - just step in and go.
She's also the most premium flat we've made to date. Buttery-soft premium nappa leather runs throughout, inside and out, and every pair is finished with more hand-detailing and more time with our artisans than any other style in the collection. That extra craftsmanship is what gives her that considered, elevated look - she's designed to feel like a step up, not just another sandal.
Built For All-Day Comfort
Underneath the leather, the Anabel Avarca uses a leather-lined memory foam cushioned insole, so comfort doesn't get sacrificed for the more structured, closed-toe look. A flexible, lightweight recycled rubber sole finishes things off, keeping her light enough for a full day on your feet, whether that's the school run, the office, or a long weekend of exploring.
And of course, she carries the same heritage as every avarca we make: handcrafted in Menorca, Spain, by traditional shoe artisans using techniques passed down for generations.
Why Menorca Still Matters
The avarca has been made on the island of Menorca for centuries, originally as simple, practical farm footwear before it became the design classic it is today. We work with artisans there who still build each pair by hand, from cutting the leather to stitching the upper to setting the sole - the same process that's shaped every avarca in our collection, whether it's a classic open-toe style or a newer design like Anabel. That heritage is part of why the avarca has lasted this long as a genuine wardrobe staple rather than a passing trend, and it's something we're careful to protect with every new style we introduce.
How To Wear Her
If you're dressing for the office, the closed toe and structured silhouette make her a natural fit for smart-casual workwear, especially somewhere air-conditioned. Teachers love the Anabel!
If you're travelling, the slip-on design makes her easy through security, and the closed toe means she works for cooler climates too, not just Dubai heat.
If you want an evening-ready flat, Midnight pairs effortlessly with tailored trousers or a slip dress for dinners and events where you still want to walk comfortably.
If you're building out your closed-toe collection, she's the more elevated, occasion-ready option to sit alongside your everyday sandals.
If you're gifting for a birthday or special occasion, the premium finish and elegant silhouette make her a considered choice - she doesn't need much explaining to feel like a treat.
Shop By Colour
She comes in two shades, each a genuinely versatile neutral:
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Midnight - a deep, adaptable black that moves easily from day to night. Shop Anabel Avarca in Midnight
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Latte - a soft, warm neutral that pairs with almost everything already in your wardrobe. Shop Anabel Avarca in Latte
Or browse the full range here: The Anabel Avarca Collection
A Few Common Questions
How is this different from your other avarcas? Our Classic and Luxe Avarcas are open-toe, traditional Menorcan sandals. The Anabel Avarca is our closed-toe version - same heritage and craftsmanship, but with a fully enclosed, sweetheart-shaped upper for more coverage and a dressier finish.
Is she true to size? Yes, the Anabel Avarca runs true to size. If you're between sizes or have wider feet, we'd recommend sizing up.
Can I wear her year-round? Yes - the closed-toe design was built with exactly that in mind. She works through Dubai's air-conditioned offices and cooler evenings just as well as she does on warmer days.
Does she need breaking in? The premium nappa leather is soft from the very first wear, and the memory foam insole means there's no lengthy break-in period the way there sometimes is with structured leather shoes. Most customers find her comfortable straight out of the box.
Still Deciding?
If you'd like to try her on before committing, our Shoeq Concierge service brings her straight to your door, or you can visit us in-store at Mercato Mall, Jumeirah, or The Courtyard, Al Quoz. Same-day delivery is available across Dubai, with next-day delivery UAE-wide.
Curious about the story behind the avarca itself? Take a look at our complete guide to Avarca shoes.
