Yael Star is the CEO and Creative Director of Edward Meller — a women-owned, family-owned, Australian-designed footwear brand shaped by decades of experience, an uncompromising standard, and a deep connection to the women who wear it.
Working alongside her father for more than 30 years, Yael has helped shape Edward Meller into the brand it is today — one defined by thoughtful design, exceptional fit, and enduring style.
In recent years, following her father’s retirement, Yael took the reins of the business, continuing the family legacy while leading Edward Meller forward with her own creative vision.
Yael’s approach to design begins where it has always mattered most to her — on the shop floor. She genuinely loves spending time with customers, listening to their stories, understanding what they’re looking for, and learning how shoes need to work in their everyday lives. Those conversations are where ideas are formed and where every collection truly begins.
Like many of the women she designs for, Yael balances career, family, and social life. She understands the demands of real life, which is why comfort, quality, and craftsmanship are never optional.
Three non-negotiables guide every Edward Meller design: fit, comfort, and craftsmanship.
Yael will not compromise on any of them. She cannot wear uncomfortable shoes, and she will never offer her customers something she wouldn’t choose herself. From materials to construction, every detail is considered to ensure each design delivers confidence, polish, and wearability.
This philosophy is why Edward Meller remains a brand women return to season after season.
Fit
Fit is where every Edward Meller shoe begins — and it’s personal. Yael is the fit model, trying on every style herself and refining it repeatedly until it feels right. She pays attention to every detail: where the heel counter sits, the width and depth of the toe box and the placement of the throat line. Each adjustment is tested, reworked, and tested again until the shoe fits as it should. If it’s not right on her foot, it doesn’t go into production.
Comfort
Comfort is one of the most important elements of every Edward Meller design — and one Yael is constantly working to improve. She is always searching for new ways to make shoes more wearable, whether that’s sourcing new memory foam insoles or refining and increasing existing padding without compromising fit. Every decision is carefully balanced so the shoe feels better, not bulkier. Comfort is not an afterthought — it’s why customers return to Edward Meller season after season.
Craftsmanship
Craftsmanship is why Yael spends time in the factories, ensuring every shoe meets her standards. From sourcing the best materials to overseeing construction techniques, quality is checked at every stage. Edward Meller shoes are still made by skilled artisans, where shoemaking remains a hands-on craft. Every stitch, finish, and detail reflects a commitment to producing footwear that is not only beautiful, but built to last.
Travel, particularly throughout Europe, continues to influence each collection. From shoe fairs to city streets, Yael draws inspiration globally and applies it to each collection for the Australian woman. The result is footwear that feels modern yet timeless - designed to move effortlessly through every part of a woman’s life.
Edward Meller continues to evolve. Yael now works closely with her daughter, Allegra, Head of Marketing & PR, who brings a modern perspective that challenges and complements the brand’s heritage.
While the future is always in mind, Yael’s focus remains on the present — refining the brand, strengthening its connection with Australian customers, and ensuring Edward Meller remains the brand women come back to again and again.
Discover the latest collection designed with fit, comfort and craftsmanship at the core.
