Women's Shoes with Braided Trim

These women’s shoes made of light blue silk display the elongated toe-cap typical of the first half of the century, which ends in a slightly upward-pointing tip, as well as a raised instep flap the centre of which is equipped with a decorative metal edging. The folds of the l-shaped upper portions fold down, one upon the other and, as is clearly visible from the remaining needle punctures, were originally affixed with a shoe buckle. All edges and seams are bordered in light blue, silk twill ribbon for reinforcement. The moderately high, block-shaped heel is covered with silk. The promenade, or outdoor stroll, was more popular in Britain than on the European mainland, and shoes of this type were most commonly worn in England. The rustic chequered linen lining contrasts with the elegant exterior of the shoe.