Pair of shoes

From the 1790s simple flat slippers or 'sandal shoes' were the popular choice for ladies of fashion. In a move away from what were thought to be the excesses of pre-revolutionary France, designers looked to classical antiquity for inspiration. At first women's shoes had pointed toes and curved throats with ribbons that tied round the ankle. By the 1820s the square toe and throat had taken over.

The overall style and shape of the shoe was very plain but they could be produced in a multitude of bright colours, like this red pair, to suit every occasion and ensemble. The addition of elaborate rosettes or other decorative embellishments allowed the wearer to personalise what was a very common style of shoe.