1970's Vintage Peter Fox Platforms

‎1970's flashback......
Peter Fox, Stained Glass Effect Platform Boots (c. 1973), [Museum of Vancouver, Vancouver BC May 14-Sep 26]

What is a D'orsay Shoe?

Many shoes are described as d’orsay pumps, but what does that expression mean and where did the name come from?

It generally refers to a pump style shoe in which the vamp is cut away on the sides, showing the arch and the side of the foot. The heels can be high or low, but usually it has a closed heel-back and toe.  Some shoe manufacturers will even include a hidden elastic inside the heel back which will help the shoe stay on the foot, especially for women with narrow heels. 

 

It is widely thought that this shoe style is named after the French noble artist, painter and sculptor  Count D’orsay in the 19^th century. He  was known for his charm and style in both fashion and art.  At this time both men and women wore pump style shoes that often didn’t fit and gaped on the sides. Being a style-setter and all around fashion dandy, he had the idea to cut out the sides of the shoes so that they would fit better.

Today the D’orsay shoe is considered a classic style that is both flattering and elegant. Leaving the arch of the foot exposed and often giving a peek of “toe cleavage”, it is also thought of as a very sexy shoe style, especially in a high heel. This style flatters most feet and elongates the leg for short skirts and eveningwear and even Bridal shoes.

Wedding Shoe Traditions

There are so many interesting Wedding traditions around the world, and many of them involve shoes!
From the website "All About Shoes":

Happily Ever After

Today, the image of shoes tied to the bumper of a car is an icon meaning “just married.” These shoes are considered to be a symbol of good luck. The origins of this practice have been obscured through time. More than 100 years ago, it was traditional in the West to hurl shoes at the departing couple. The throwing of shoes may have initially been a form of protest that a bride was being taken away. Over time, the tradition may have been modified to the tying of the shoes to the bumper.

Read more about Wedding Shoe traditions on the link below

http://www.allaboutshoes.ca/en/perfect_pair/index.php?target_table=perfect_pair