What Are d'Orsay Flats? How to Recognize the Side Cutout
d'Orsay flats are defined by the cutaway shape at the sides of the upper. The detail reveals part of the side of the foot while the front and heel remain distinct sections. It describes a silhouette, not a leather type, heel height or guarantee of fit.
If you like a woven front but want a more open side outline, that is the feature to look for. Macarena Collection's 2120 d'Orsay Woven Flat and 2167 Cutout Woven Flat show how side cutouts can work with woven leather.
Where Should You Look for the d'Orsay Detail?
Open a side photograph and follow the upper from the front toward the heel. Instead of a full-height panel running continuously along the side, a d'Orsay design cuts that area lower. The shape and depth vary by pair.
The Bill Bird Shoes shoemaking glossary describes the d'Orsay form through its cutaway sides. For shopping, the useful question is where the opening sits on the actual shoe—not whether every brand uses precisely the same label.
A front photograph alone can hide this detail. A woven toe may dominate that view even when the side is substantially open. Compare front, side and rear views to understand the complete outline.
d'Orsay, Slingback and Mule: Three Different Places to Open a Shoe
- d'Orsay: look for the cutaway at the side of the upper.
- Slingback: look for a strap passing around the back of the heel rather than a full heel enclosure.
- Mule: look for the open back; there is no enclosing heel section.
These words highlight different parts of a design, and features can overlap. A shoe with an open side is not automatically a slingback or a mule. If you are comparing heel arrangements, visit our woven slingback guide or backless woven-flat guide.
Compare the 2120 and 2167
2120: Woven Front With a Low Side Outline
The 2120 product page identifies a handwoven closed toe, d'Orsay side cutouts and a closed back. In the tan version shown in the cover, narrow strips form the front pattern, while the side drops lower between the woven front and heel section.
Notice the low strips close to the sole as well as the larger opening above them. Cutaway does not mean that every piece of material beside the arch has been removed.
2167: A Different Weave Around the Cutout
The 2167 also pairs a woven toe area with side cutouts and a closed heel. Its brown reference photograph shows a different arrangement of strips and small perforations near the top edge of the woven front.
Compare the curve where the front upper ends, the height of the side opening and the heel outline. These visible differences help you choose the design you prefer without assuming the two models have identical dimensions.
Both current product pages identify genuine vegetable-tanned leather and handcrafting in Mexico. Those descriptions do not establish every internal component or tell you exactly how a particular pair will feel on your foot.
How to Let the Cutout Show in an Outfit
With cropped trousers: try a hem that leaves the side outline visible. View the outfit from the side as well as the front so the cutaway is part of the overall look.
With a plain skirt: the open side and woven front can provide the main detail. Start with one color already present in your wardrobe rather than adding several new patterns.
With longer trousers: the cutout may be mostly hidden, which can be a perfectly useful choice. Check the hem with the actual pair so it falls cleanly rather than dragging.
For outfit combinations beyond the silhouette, see our dresses guide. A side cutout is a styling detail; it does not establish suitability for a workplace or event dress code.
What to Check Before Ordering
The 2120 selector currently lists Shedron and Tan; the 2167 offers a wider set of color options. Both list US women's whole sizes 5–10. Check availability for the exact color and size: a listed option does not mean every combination is in stock.
If fit is uncertain, ask about the particular model's internal length, width and upper opening. During an indoor try-on, notice heel movement, pressure where the woven front ends and whether the shoe stays on without your toes gripping. Side cutouts alone do not guarantee a better fit for a narrow or wide foot.
Our sizing guide explains further checks. Browse Everyday Flats to compare these silhouettes with other woven designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can d'Orsay Shoes Be Flat?
Yes. The term concerns side cutaways rather than requiring a high heel. The 2120 and 2167 are flat examples in Macarena Collection.
Are d'Orsay Flats the Same as Open-Toe Shoes?
No. Side coverage and toe coverage are separate details. The featured models combine woven toe coverage with open areas along the sides.
Does a d'Orsay Flat Have an Open Heel?
Not necessarily. Both featured Macarena designs have a closed heel section. Look at the back view rather than assuming a side opening continues around the heel.
Should I Choose the Same Size in the 2120 and 2167?
Matching size labels are a starting point, not proof of identical fit. Check model-specific guidance and request measurements if you need them before ordering.