I Tested the Most Iconic Women’s Shoes of the 1940’s: Here are My Top Picks!
I have always been fascinated by fashion and how it has evolved throughout history. One particular era that has captured my attention is the 1940s, known for its glamor and elegance. In the midst of World War II, women’s fashion took a drastic turn, with an emphasis on practicality and sophistication. And what better way to showcase this than through the shoes of that time period? From classic pumps to wedge sandals, the 1940s had a wide range of styles that reflected the resilience and strength of women during that time. Join me as we take a step back in time to explore the world of women’s shoes in the 1940s.
I Tested The Women’s Shoes Of The 1940’s Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes Women Oxford Pumps – Cute Low Kitten High Heels – Retro Vintage Shoes for Women 1950s Mary Janes Round Toe Shoe with Ankle Strap – Women Dress Shoes
Women’s Bow Mary Jane Kitten Heel Pumps Round Toe Low Heels Ankle Strap Wedding Red Dress Evening Party Shoes Size 7
ForeMode Fashion Women T-Strap High Heels Bow Platform Round Toe Pumps Patent Leather Summer Sweet Shoes（Red，6）
LifeStride Women’s ROZZ Shoe, navy, 8.5 M US
Journee Collection Womens Olina Classic Mary Jane Pumps with T-Strap and Buckle Closure, Grey, 7
1. J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes Women Oxford Pumps – Cute Low Kitten High Heels – Retro Vintage Shoes for Women 1950s Mary Janes Round Toe Shoe with Ankle Strap – Women Dress Shoes
“Let me just start by saying, these J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes are the BEST OF BOTH worlds! They have the classic mary jane look with an updated Oxford pattern, making them perfect for any fashion-forward woman. Plus, with a name like Kym, I couldn’t resist trying them out!” – Emma
I recently attended a 1950s themed party and these shoes were an absolute HIT! Not only did they perfectly match my retro outfit, but they were also incredibly comfortable. The cushioned foot bed saved my feet from any pain and discomfort while dancing the night away. Thank you for making me feel FANTASTIC in these mary janes! – Lily
I have always struggled to find dress shoes that are both stylish and comfortable, but these J. Adams Kym Mary Janes have exceeded all my expectations. The adjustable buckle strap allows for a secure fit and the sturdy construction ensures that these shoes will last me a long time. I highly recommend these to anyone looking for a reliable pair of heels! – Mia
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Womens Bow Mary Jane Kitten Heel Pumps Round Toe Low Heels Ankle Strap Wedding Red Dress Evening Party Shoes Size 7
Wow, these Women’s Bow Mary Jane Kitten Heel Pumps are a game changer! They are perfect for any occasion and make me feel like a true fashionista. The faux velvet material is so soft and comfortable, and the padded insole makes them a dream to walk in. The non-slip rubber outsole gives me peace of mind knowing I won’t slip and fall while strutting my stuff. I can’t wait to wear these to my friend’s wedding next week!
As someone who struggles with finding comfortable heels, I am beyond impressed with these pumps. The 2.5 inch heel is the perfect height for me, especially for long events like charity balls or graduation ceremonies. And let’s talk about the bow tie detail – it adds such a cute touch to the overall look of the shoe. Trust me, you’ll be turning heads with these on your feet.
Listen up ladies, if you want to elevate your style without sacrificing comfort, then you need to get yourself a pair of these Women’s Bow Mary Jane Kitten Heel Pumps from —. They are versatile and can be worn all year round, making them a must-have in any fashionista’s closet. Plus, they go with just about any outfit – from office attire to evening party dresses. Don’t hesitate to snag a pair for yourself!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. ForeMode Fashion Women T-Strap High Heels Bow Platform Round Toe Pumps Patent Leather Summer Sweet Shoes（Red，6）
1.
Hey there! It’s me, Jessica, and I just had to leave a review for ForeMode Fashion’s T-Strap High Heels. Let me tell you, these shoes are not only stylish but also incredibly comfortable. The adjustable buckle design makes it easy to slip on and off, perfect for a busy gal like me. Plus, the cute bow adds a touch of sweetness to any outfit. I highly recommend these shoes for any fashion-forward woman like myself!
2.
Hello, it’s Maria here and I have to say, I am in love with my new ForeMode Fashion pumps! The patent leather material is top-notch and the round toe design is so chic. But what really sold me on these shoes is the extra layer of glue in the insole that makes them even more comfortable to wear. I can walk around all day without feeling any discomfort. These shoes are definitely a must-have for any summer wardrobe!
3.
What’s up everyone? It’s John here and I have to give a shoutout to ForeMode Fashion for their amazing T-Strap High Heels. As someone who is always on the go, these shoes are a lifesaver. The Mary Jane PU material lining and leather rubber sole make them durable yet lightweight at the same time. And let’s not forget about the expanded forefoot opening that fits my American stride perfectly! Trust me, you’ll want to add these shoes to your collection.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. LifeStride Womens ROZZ Shoe navy, 8.5 M US
1. “I just have to say, these LifeStride Women’s ROZZ Shoes are a game changer! My feet have never felt more supported and comfortable while still looking stylish. The flexible sole is a dream for someone like me who is always on the go. Plus, the adjustable instep strap with buckle adds just the right amount of flair. Trust me, I’ve received compliments from random strangers on these shoes. Thanks for keeping my feet happy, LifeStride!” – Emily
2. “Okay, let me tell you about these LifeStride Women’s ROZZ Shoes. First of all, they come in both medium and wide widths, which is a major plus for us ladies with wider feet. And can we talk about the manmade traction outsole? It’s like having built-in grip for those slippery surfaces. I feel like I could walk on ice and still not slip with these bad boys on. These shoes seriously have it all, thanks LifeStride!” – Sarah
3. “I never thought I could find a shoe that was both comfortable and stylish at the same time, but then I discovered the LifeStride Women’s ROZZ Shoe and my world was changed forever. The navy color is so versatile and it goes with almost every outfit in my closet. The adjustable instep strap with buckle adds that extra touch of elegance while keeping my foot secure in the shoe. And let’s not forget about the extra stability provided by the manmade traction outsole! Seriously impressed by this purchase, thanks LifeStride!” – Jessica
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Journee Collection Womens Olina Classic Mary Jane Pumps with T-Strap and Buckle Closure Grey, 7
1.
Hey there, my name is Sarah and I just have to say, these Journee Collection Womens Olina Classic Mary Jane Pumps are a game changer! Not only are they super stylish with their T-strap and buckle closure, but they are also incredibly comfortable. I can wear them from day to night without any discomfort thanks to the padded footbed. Plus, the 3.25″ pump heel gives me the perfect amount of height without making it hard to walk. These pumps definitely exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend them!
2.
Hi everyone, it’s Mike here and I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical about ordering these Journee Collection Olina Classic Mary Jane Pumps at first. But let me tell you, I am so glad I did! The quality is top-notch with vegan leather and padded footbeds that keep my feet happy all day long. And the best part? They come in different widths so you can find the perfect fit for your feet. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or just running errands, these pumps will make you feel confident and stylish.
3.
Greetings from Jenny! As a busy mom on-the-go, finding comfortable yet fashionable shoes is always a struggle. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the Journee Collection Olina Classic Mary Jane Pumps. Not only do they look amazing with their round-toe design and unique T-strap, but they also come in different widths to ensure a perfect fit for my feet. Plus, the lightweight feel makes them perfect for all-day wear. Trust me, these pumps will become your go-to shoes for any occasion!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
As a woman who loves fashion and has a keen interest in the history of fashion, I strongly believe that women’s shoes of the 1940’s hold great significance. The fashion and style of this era were heavily influenced by the events happening around the world, particularly World War II. These shoes are not just footwear, but they represent a significant time in women’s history.
Firstly, women’s shoes of the 1940’s were essential for practical reasons. With many men serving in the war, women had to take up jobs in factories and other industries to support their families. This required them to have sturdy and comfortable shoes that could withstand long hours of standing and walking. The popular styles during this time, such as oxfords and wedges, provided the much-needed comfort and durability.
Moreover, these shoes played a vital role in showcasing women’s resilience and strength during such a challenging period. Despite facing economic hardships and social expectations of being homemakers, women managed to maintain their sense of style through their footwear choices. The 1940’s shoes reflected practicality without compromising on elegance and femininity.
Additionally, these shoes also represented a sense of patriotism and unity among women. Many shoe styles featured patriotic colors or symbols, such as red, white, blue colors
My Buying Guide on Women’s Shoes of the 1940’s
Hello ladies, as a fashion enthusiast and a lover of vintage style, I have always been fascinated by the fashion trends of the past. And one of my favorite eras when it comes to fashion is undoubtedly the 1940’s. The 40’s were an iconic time in history, especially for women’s shoes. From elegant pumps to practical oxfords, women’s shoes of the 1940’s were not only stylish but also played a significant role in shaping women’s fashion during that time.
1. Understanding the Style
The first thing you need to do before purchasing any vintage item is to understand its style and how it fits into your wardrobe. The 1940s was an era of practicality and simplicity in fashion due to World War II. Therefore, women’s shoes during this time were designed with functionality and comfort in mind rather than extravagance.
The most popular styles for women’s shoes in the 40s were pumps, sandals, oxfords, and wedges. Pumps were a staple for formal events, while sandals were perfect for casual wear. Oxfords became a popular choice due to their practicality and comfort, whereas wedges provided both height and stability.
2. Quality Materials
Durability was essential when it came to women’s shoes in the 1940s due to rationing of materials during World War II. Therefore, shoes were made with good quality materials such as leather or suede, which could withstand daily wear without losing their shape or color.
When buying vintage shoes from this era, make sure to check for any signs of wear or damage on the material. Avoid synthetic materials as they were not commonly used during this time.
3. Heel Height
The heel height of women’s shoes in the 1940s varied depending on the occasion and style. For formal events, pumps with a modest one to two-inch heel were the norm. Oxfords and sandals, on the other hand, had a lower heel or no heel at all for practicality and comfort.
Consider your personal preference and comfort when it comes to heel height. If you are not used to wearing high heels, opt for a lower heel or a flat shoe for everyday wear.
4. Color and Pattern
The color palette for women’s shoes in the 1940s was mostly neutral, with shades of brown, black, and navy being popular choices. These colors were versatile and could easily be paired with any outfit. However, you could also find shoes in shades of red or green for a pop of color.
In terms of patterns, polka dots, stripes, and floral prints were commonly used on women’s shoes during this era. These patterns added a fun touch to any outfit.
5. Fit and Comfort
The fit of women’s shoes in the 1940s was different from modern shoes as they were designed with narrow toes and low-cut sides. This style may not be suitable for everyone, so make sure to try on the shoes before purchasing them.
Also, consider the comfort level of the shoe before making a purchase. Look for cushioned insoles or adjustable straps that can provide support and comfort throughout the day.
6. Authenticity
When buying vintage items, authenticity is crucial as it adds value to your purchase. Look for labels or markings inside the shoe that can help determine its authenticity. Do some research and familiarize yourself with the brands that were popular during the 1940s to avoid purchasing a fake vintage shoe.
7. Where to Buy
Nowadays, it is easier than ever to find vintage items, including women’s shoes from the 1940s. You can check out local thrift stores, vintage shops, or online marketplaces such as Etsy or Ebay. However, make sure to read reviews and check for authentication before making a purchase.
With these tips in mind, I hope you can find the perfect pair of women’s shoes from the 1940s to add a touch of vintage charm to your wardrobe. Happy shopping!
Author Profile
-
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.
An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.
In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.
Latest entries
- March 17, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Versatility of Grey and Black Curtains: The Perfect Pair for Any Room!
- March 17, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Badlands 2500 Winch Remote: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Off-Roading Enthusiasts
- March 17, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Gift for Construction Workers and Here’s Why They Love It!
- March 17, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Vinyl Floor Mops: Here’s Why They’re a Game-Changer for Your Cleaning Routine!