The Riverside Black Leather
The Riverside is a Blankens classic, loved for its balance of elegance and comfort. Its considered heel height makes it a natural choice for long days, while unexpected details at the back add character to a clean silhouette. Wear it with tailored trousers at work, a skirt for dinner, or as an indoor shoe when winter boots come off. Polished without feeling formal, it’s a dependable heel that makes getting dressed feel easier.
The Riverside is crafted by hand in a small, family-run factory in northern Portugal, where traditional shoemaking knowledge meets modern design. We use European leather sourced from Gold Rated Leather Working Group tanneries, ensuring high quality, responsible sourcing, and a lower environmental impact. Each pair is carefully produced with attention to balance, durability, and comfort — a shoe designed to hold up over time, both in construction and in style.
Scandinavian Airlines has chosen The Riverside as part of their new uniform:
“Blankens has a unique ability to balance classic influences with modern design, making their shoes perfect for our cabin crew, who need both style and functionality during long workdays at 10,000 meters. Their Scandinavian minimalism—clean, streamlined silhouettes with thoughtful details—reflects the same design philosophy as our new uniforms. Just like the uniform, Blankens shoes combine timeless aesthetics, durability, and comfort, making them a natural choice for us,” says Kristine Mayer, Design Director, SAS.
The Riverside is a leather heel with a clean, elegant silhouette and a stable, comfortable heel height designed for everyday wear. The smooth leather upper is complemented by refined detailing at the back that adds subtle interest without overpowering the design. Lined in leather for comfort and breathability, and set on a well-balanced heel that supports long hours on your feet. A versatile, polished shoe designed for workdays, travel, and evenings alike — built to be worn often and relied on for years.
Treat your shoes to make them last longer! Regular care keeps your shoes beautiful, soft, and strong. By cleaning, conditioning, and protecting the leather, you preserve its suppleness, prevent cracks, and maintain its natural shine. Think of it as skincare — for your most trusted companions. A small ritual that makes a big difference, keeping your Blankens favorites fresh and ready for every season.
We recommend using a protective spray, such as the Water Proofer, before first wear and reapply regularly to guard against moisture and stains.
Don't forget the inside. Refresh the insole by cleaning it with The Foam Cleaner.
We recommend storing them in a cool, dry place when not in use, with a shoe tree or paper stuffing to maintain shape. Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture and direct heat.
The inner sole length is measured from heel to toe. Add a bit of extra space for the feet. For shoes with a pointed toe, keep in mind that your foot will not extend all the way into the pointed end.
Size Talk
Hear our founder Cecilia Blankens describe the size and fit of this model.
STYLING IDEAS
We make the shoes that make the outfit
Designed by women, for women — with thoughtful details, carefully chosen materials and room for real life.
Founded in Sweden in 2014 by fashion journalist Cecilia Blankens, we’re an independent, women-owned brand. We design, test and wear every style ourselves, paying attention to soft materials, room where feet need it and heels that feel balanced. Looking good should feel good, too.
Our shoes and bags are handcrafted in small, family-run factories in Portugal using carefully selected European materials. Quality you can feel, craftsmanship worth caring for and design you’ll reach for season after season.