Influencer Faces Criticism for 30-Hour Flight for Designer Heels
An Australian social media personality is facing significant backlash for documenting an extravagant trip to Paris, undertaken solely to purchase a pair of designer shoes. The influencer, aged 41, shared a video on Instagram from inside a Valentino boutique, showcasing herself trying on several pairs of pumps, each priced at approximately $1,680.
The footwear in question featured an open-toe design with a transparent strap across the front, which some observers noted gave the appearance of being entirely open at the front. The influencer captioned the post, “Travelled 30hrs from Sydney to Paris to get THE heels of the season. Say hello to the Open Toe Révélé Suede Pumps.”
Public Reaction to the Luxury Purchase
However, the lavish purchase did not resonate well with many of her followers. A significant number of comments criticized the shoes as “ugly” and “overpriced.” One user expressed their disapproval, writing, “HIDEOUS. Girl you wasted money on shoes that are ugly, overpriced, and will break easy.” Concerns were also raised about the durability of the transparent strap, with one comment predicting, “That plastic is going to have so much pressure on it, it’s gonna snap right off after a night out.”
Others questioned the rationale behind such a lengthy journey for a fashion item. “It’s not a flex you think it is,” one user stated, while another agreed, “That’s the most hideous style of heels I have ever seen.” Additional criticisms included remarks like, “Hate to say this but they’re awful,” and “Girl those are terrible.” Some commenters drew unflattering comparisons, likening the shoes to camel toes or front teeth.
The decision to travel such a distance for the shoes also drew questions. “You didn’t have anything better to do?” one follower asked, with another inquiring, “You couldn’t get them shipped?”
Despite the negative feedback, a portion of Elle’s audience expressed admiration for the extravagant shopping excursion. “I think they are super cool and unique,” one supporter commented, while another agreed, “I actually love them!” A third user added, “They’re definitely a cool girl heel!”
Previous Controversy Over Luxury Item Statement
This incident follows closely behind another controversial statement made by the influencer last week. She previously garnered attention for suggesting that a designer jewelry box offers a superior experience to having children.
The influencer, who has no children, posted a video on Instagram showcasing a Louis Vuitton shell-shaped jewelry box, reportedly priced at $23,600. The item is described as being crafted from monogram-coated canvas with blue microfiber lining and golden brass hardware.
In the video, she overlaid a polarizing message: “Just saw someone from high school post a photo with their 3 kids saying ‘What could be better than this?’. Respectfully – a $23,600 LV Seashell Box.” She attempted to mitigate potential criticism by adding the caption, “Take it with a grain of salt.”
This disclaimer did little to appease critics. One user responded, “Respectfully, I hope you are joking.” Another stated, “Kids are much better than a cheesy Louis Vuitton shell jewelry case,” while a third added a poignant reflection in Italian, “A LV seashell box will never say, ‘Mamma ti voglio un mondo di bene’ [Mum I love you so much]. Nothing can beat THIS feeling… respectfully!”
Some individuals expressed outright rejection of the jewelry box, with one user claiming they “wouldn’t be taking the jewellery box for free,” even without children. Another questioned the financial incentives behind the promotion.
However, the influencer’s sentiment did find some agreement. “I have three kids, and yes you’re right,” one user humorously commented, while another added, “Nailed it!! We all want one.” Several celebrity friends also voiced their support, including fellow influencer Elle Gonsalves, who commented, “Hell yeah,” and model Simone Holtznagel, who posted laughing emojis. Booby Tape founder Bianca Roccisano added, “I’m crying,” and Double Bay eyebrow specialist Kristin Fisher quipped, “This is too good.”
