How to buy the right shoes?

Women's 1940's Shoe Styles - Then and Now

With a 1940's fashion revival going on now it is only expected that shoe designers would jump on the 40's bandwagon. 1940's women's shoes run from simple low heeled Mary Jane's to sexy pin up style peep toe pumps. Just like in the 40's themselves the style of shoe you wear depends on rest of your outfit. Here is some advice on what 1940's style shoes to wear today.

Oxfords. Oxford shoes with a black and white or brown and white design are a symbol of the 1950′s. They were called saddle shoes. However Oxfords actually were very popular in the 1940′s with young girls and ladies. The heels were usually low, 1-2 inches, and "chunky." Worn with a cute pair of bobby socks these shoes were ideal for everyday use. Wear these today just like they did in the 40's with a white blouse or cardigan sweater and a low knee length A-line skirt plaid or a solid color. Add a matching thin belt around your waist for the perfect accent.

Right Shoes

Mary Jane. The Mary Jane with simple rounded toes and single strap over the top of the foot started it's popularity in the 1920's and continues today. In the early 40's the heels were low but as the decade progressed they grew taller and narrower.  What sets  1940′s Mary Jane shoes apart from other decades was the material. Leather was in short supply during the war so shoes were made of any available fabric, mesh or reptile skin! You can find some great fake crocodile skin Mary Jane pumps and flats in most department stores. These look stunning with a two piece skirt and jacket suit or a flowing swing dance dress. Match you shoes to your accessories for a unified 40's look.

Wedgies or just Wedge shoes. At one time open arched shoes and tall heels were considered two dangerous to walk in. A wedge heel made of wood or cork kept full soles on the ground yet elevated the heel for some extra height. Women went nuts for these in the 40's. Even when fabric rationing exposed the cork wedge base women continued to horde these classic. You have probably seen wedgies in the summer with a rattan base and laces wrapped up the leg. These are great but don't think for a moment that wedgies are only for summer. Many styles feature full leather uppers in a variety of colors and heights. Take advantage of these styles and wear them with your fun vintage 40's wrap or shirtwaist dress. The right choice can take you from day to evening without skipping a beat.

Peep Toe. Do you dream of being a Hollywood "Bombshell" or even a naughty pin up girl? If you do then peep toe shoes are for you. All kinds of women in the 1940's wore these but their popularity today shows up most when matched with a wiggle dress. Also know as pencil or cocktail dresses these tight, form fitting, sexy dresses are popping up in women's every day fashions. Complement this dress with a pair of peep toe pumps for a subtle sexy tease. The toe opening, big enough to expose the big toe, is all you need to look like you belong in Hollywood.

Women's 1940's Shoe Styles - Then and Now

Now that you know what 1940's shoes were and still are hot items you can start shopping for your own pair. Hit the mall or shop online for the best vintage modern 1940's shoes today.