An unexpected retail benefit has risen out of the ashes of the Canberra protest that ended with Prime Minister Julia Gillard losing her shoe.

In an attempt to quickly move the PM from The Lobby restaurant to the safety of a bullet proof car, Ms Gillard left behind a shoe.

“Sales of the Midas Black Velvet Glorify have gone through the roof. Everyone wants to be wearing what Julia wears” said shoe retailer Gary Bunt.

The shoe has since been returned to the Prime Minister completely unharmed.