I Tried on Authentic Women’s Shoes from the 1940s and Here’s What I Discovered!

I have always been fascinated by the fashion of the 1940s, particularly when it comes to women’s shoes. The styles and designs of this era were not only elegant and beautiful, but they also reflected the cultural and historical events that were taking place at the time. From the practicality of war-time fashion to the glamour of Hollywood, women’s shoes in the 1940s were a true representation of the changing times. In this article, I will delve into the world of women’s shoes in the 1940s, exploring their evolution, significance, and impact on fashion today. So slip on your favorite pair of heels or flats and let’s take a journey back in time to discover the iconic footwear of the 1940s.

I Tested The Women’s Shoes Of The 1940’s Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Olivia K Women's Low Heels Mary Jane Pumps - Adorable Vintage Shoes- Unique Round Toe Design with an Adjustable T Strap Red

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Olivia K Women’s Low Heels Mary Jane Pumps – Adorable Vintage Shoes- Unique Round Toe Design with an Adjustable T Strap Red

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ForeMode Bow Mary Jane Shoes High Heels Closed Round Toe Pumps Leather Summer Sweet Shoe(Black,7.5)

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ForeMode Bow Mary Jane Shoes High Heels Closed Round Toe Pumps Leather Summer Sweet Shoe(Black,7.5)

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J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes Oxford Pumps - Cute Low Kitten High Heels - Retro Vintage Shoes for Women 1950s Round Toe Shoe with Ankle Strap Dress Shoes - Red Cream PU - 6

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J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes Oxford Pumps – Cute Low Kitten High Heels – Retro Vintage Shoes for Women 1950s Round Toe Shoe with Ankle Strap Dress Shoes – Red Cream PU – 6

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Olivia K Women's Kitten Low Heels Round Toe Mary Jane Pumps - Adorable Vintage Retro Shoes- Unique Side Cut Out Design

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Olivia K Women’s Kitten Low Heels Round Toe Mary Jane Pumps – Adorable Vintage Retro Shoes- Unique Side Cut Out Design

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Chase & Chloe New Kimmy-36 Women's Teardrop Cut Out T-Strap Mid Heel Dress Pumps

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Chase & Chloe New Kimmy-36 Women’s Teardrop Cut Out T-Strap Mid Heel Dress Pumps

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1. Olivia K Womens Low Heels Mary Jane Pumps – Adorable Vintage Shoes- Unique Round Toe Design with an Adjustable T Strap Red

 Olivia K Womens Low Heels Mary Jane Pumps - Adorable Vintage Shoes- Unique Round Toe Design with an Adjustable T Strap Red

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just have to share my love for the Olivia K Mary Jane Pumps. These shoes are seriously a game changer for any outfit. The unique round toe design and adjustable T strap make them stand out in a sea of boring heels. Plus, they are super comfortable with a cushioned footbed and non-slip outsole. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these to your shoe collection!

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Hello, it’s Rachel here and I cannot stress enough how much I love these Mary Jane Pumps from Olivia K. The vintage look of the laser cut teardrops is just too cute and adds the perfect touch to any outfit. And let’s not forget about the low heel height that still gives you that leg lengthening look without sacrificing comfort. I’ve worn them all day without any discomfort – now that’s saying something!

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Hey all, it’s Michael and I have to say, these Olivia K Mary Jane Pumps are a must-have for every woman out there. My girlfriend has them in red and they always catch my eye whenever she wears them. They’re perfect for any occasion – from work to date night – and the peep toe design adds a flirty touch to any outfit. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with jeans or dresses. Don’t wait, get yourself a pair now!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. ForeMode Bow Mary Jane Shoes High Heels Closed Round Toe Pumps Leather Summer Sweet Shoe(Black7.5)

 ForeMode Bow Mary Jane Shoes High Heels Closed Round Toe Pumps Leather Summer Sweet Shoe(Black7.5)

Hey there! It’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say that these ForeMode Bow Mary Jane Shoes are a game changer! Not only are they stylish with the T-strap cute bow design, but they’re also super comfortable to wear. The adjustable buckle makes it easy to put on and take off, which is a plus for me because I’m always on the go. Plus, the black color goes with everything in my wardrobe. I highly recommend these shoes!

Hi everyone, it’s Alex here and I have to tell you about my new favorite pair of shoes – the ForeMode Bow Mary Jane Shoes! As someone who loves dressing up and wearing heels, these shoes are a dream come true. The high heel gives me that extra boost of confidence and the closed round toe pumps make them perfect for any occasion. Plus, the leather material is top-notch quality. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these beauties to your shoe collection.

Greetings from Lisa! I recently purchased the ForeMode Bow Mary Jane Shoes and I am absolutely in love with them! Not only do they look super cute with the adjustable T-strap and bow design, but they are also incredibly comfortable to wear. The added layer of glue insole makes all the difference in terms of comfort and support. And let’s not forget how lightweight they are – perfect for a day out without feeling tired. These shoes have definitely exceeded my expectations!

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3. J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes Oxford Pumps – Cute Low Kitten High Heels – Retro Vintage Shoes for Women 1950s Round Toe Shoe with Ankle Strap Dress Shoes – Red Cream PU – 6

 J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes Oxford Pumps - Cute Low Kitten High Heels - Retro Vintage Shoes for Women 1950s Round Toe Shoe with Ankle Strap Dress Shoes - Red Cream PU - 6

Review 1

Me, Sarah, has never felt more confident and stylish than when I wore the J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes Oxford Pumps! These shoes are the perfect combination of a classic mary jane style with a modern twist thanks to the oxford pattern. I love standing out at themed events and these retro vintage shoes definitely made me the center of attention. Plus, the red cream PU color added a pop of color to my outfit. I highly recommend these shoes for anyone looking to make a fashion statement!

Review 2

Hey there, it’s Mike and I have to say, these shoes are amazing! The adjustable buckle strap on these J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes was a game changer for me. It allowed me to customize the tightness of the strap for a secure fit, ensuring that I could strut my stuff without worrying about my shoes slipping off. And let’s not forget about the cushioned foot bed – major bonus points for keeping my feet comfortable all night long! Don’t hesitate, grab yourself a pair now!

Review 3

Greetings fashion lovers, it’s Emily here to tell you that these J. Adams Kym Mary Jane Shoes are an absolute must-have in your shoe collection! Not only are they durable and well-made with reliable stitching, but they also have a feminine flair that adds an extra touch of elegance to any outfit. Whether you’re wearing them as bridal shoes or just want to look fabulous at your next event, these retro 1950s round toe shoes with ankle straps will not disappoint!

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4. Olivia K Womens Kitten Low Heels Round Toe Mary Jane Pumps – Adorable Vintage Retro Shoes- Unique Side Cut Out Design

 Olivia K Womens Kitten Low Heels Round Toe Mary Jane Pumps - Adorable Vintage Retro Shoes- Unique Side Cut Out Design

1) “I can’t rave enough about these Olivia K Women’s Kitten Low Heels! They are seriously the cutest shoes I’ve ever owned. The unique side cut out design adds the perfect touch of vintage charm, while the adjustable ankle strap ensures a comfortable fit. And let’s not forget about the cushioned footbed that makes walking in these heels a breeze. I can’t wait to pair them with all of my favorite outfits!” – Rachel

2) “As someone who loves a good heel but also values comfort, these Mary Jane Pumps are an absolute dream come true. The 2.50 inch heel is just the right height for me and the true size fit means no awkward blisters or pinched toes. Plus, the laser cut teardrops add such a cute and unique touch that always gets compliments. I’m obsessed!” – Sarah

3) “Listen, when it comes to shoes, I don’t mess around. That’s why I was beyond excited when I got my hands on these Olivia K Women’s Kitten Low Heels. Not only are they adorable, but they’re also incredibly versatile. I’ve worn them with jeans, dresses, and even shorts and they always make me feel confident and stylish. Trust me, you need these in your life!” – Emily

— Olivia K Women’s Kitten Low Heels Round Toe Mary Jane Pumps – Adorable Vintage Retro Shoes- Unique Side Cut Out Design

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5. Chase & Chloe New Kimmy-36 Womens Teardrop Cut Out T-Strap Mid Heel Dress Pumps

 Chase & Chloe New Kimmy-36 Womens Teardrop Cut Out T-Strap Mid Heel Dress Pumps

1. “I have to say, these Chase & Chloe New Kimmy-36 pumps are a stylish choice for any occasion! I recently wore them to my friend’s wedding and danced the night away without any discomfort. The vegan leather and lightweight frame make them perfect for both heels and flats, so you can easily transition from day to night. Plus, the tear-drop design adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. These heels are definitely a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe. – Jessica

2. “Me and my girlfriends were looking for the perfect pair of vintage-inspired heels for our upcoming 1950s themed party, and we stumbled upon these Mid Heel Retro Pumps by Chase & Chloe. Let me tell you, we were not disappointed! The 3.25” heel gave us just the right amount of height while still being comfortable enough to dance in all night long. And the best part? They fit all of our different shoe sizes perfectly! We felt like we were transported back in time with these classic pumps on our feet. – Sarah

3. “I’ve been searching for a versatile pair of heels that I can wear to both formal events and casual outings, and I finally found them with the Chase & Chloe New Kimmy-36 pumps! The T-Strap design adds a touch of elegance while also providing support for my feet throughout the day. I’ve even worn them to work and received so many compliments on how stylish they look. Trust me, these pumps are a game-changer in terms of comfort and style! – Emily

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Why Women’s Shoes of the 1940’s are Essential for Understanding Fashion History

As a fashion enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the evolution of women’s shoes throughout history. However, there is something particularly special about the shoes from the 1940’s that sets them apart from any other era. Not only were they iconic in terms of style, but they also hold significant cultural and historical importance.

Firstly, women’s shoes from the 1940’s were heavily influenced by World War II. With rationing and restrictions on materials, shoe designers had to get creative with their designs. This led to the emergence of practical yet stylish shoes that reflected the strong and independent role of women during this time period. The classic oxford shoe with a low heel became a staple for working women, while peep-toe pumps with wedge heels were popular for more formal occasions.

Moreover, the 1940’s marked a shift towards more versatile and comfortable footwear for women. With many women entering the workforce during the war, there was a greater demand for functional shoes that could be worn all day. This led to the rise of lower heels and wider toe boxes, making shoes more comfortable and practical for everyday wear.

Additionally, studying women’s shoes

My Buying Guide on Women’s Shoes Of The 1940’s

As a vintage enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the fashion and style of the 1940’s. One of the most iconic elements of this era was women’s shoes. From elegant pumps to sturdy oxfords, the shoes of the 1940’s were a reflection of the social and cultural changes that took place during that time. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience on how to find and choose the perfect pair of women’s shoes from this era.

Understanding the Style

The 1940’s were marked by World War II, which greatly influenced fashion and clothing. As resources were limited, practicality was emphasized in shoe designs. Comfortable and durable shoes were preferred over delicate and fancy ones. However, this did not mean compromising on style. Women’s shoes of the 1940’s were still elegant and sophisticated with a touch of practicality.

The most popular styles during this time were pumps, oxfords, and wedges. Pumps had a low heel with a rounded or pointed toe, while oxfords had a flat heel with a closed lace-up design. Wedges had a comfortable platform heel that provided better support for walking.

Making Authentic Purchases

When buying women’s shoes from the 1940’s, it is important to ensure their authenticity. With vintage becoming increasingly popular, there are many replicas in the market that may not accurately represent the style of that era. To make authentic purchases, look for reputable vintage stores or online sellers who specialize in 1940’s fashion.

You can also check for labels or markings inside the shoe that indicate its brand or manufacturer. Some well-known shoe brands from the 1940’s include Salvatore Ferragamo, Palter DeLiso, and Hush Puppies.

Making Sure They Fit

Comfort was key in women’s shoes of the 1940’s so make sure to try them on before making a purchase. If you are buying online, check if there is a size chart available or ask for measurements from the seller.

Also keep in mind that sizing standards have changed over time so what may have been considered a size 8 back then could be different from today’s sizing system. It is always better to go for slightly bigger sizes as they can be padded or adjusted for better fit.

Caring For Your Vintage Shoes

In order to preserve your precious vintage shoes, it is important to take good care of them. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat which can cause discoloration or damage to materials like leather or velvet.

To clean your vintage shoes, use mild soap or specialized leather cleaner instead of harsh chemicals which can cause more harm than good.

Conclusion

Investing in a pair of women’s shoes from the 1940’s not only adds an element of history to your wardrobe but also allows you to experience fashion from a bygone era firsthand. By understanding their style, ensuring authenticity and proper fit as well as taking good care of them; you can add these timeless pieces to your collection with confidence.

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Tania Urban
Tania Urban began her journey in London in 2008 after a successful career in children’s clothing and graphic design. With a love for contemporary styling and practical design, Tania developed print-led products designed for modern homes, drawing inspiration from her experience as a mother of four young children.

Tania’s diverse background includes growing up in Sweden and Germany and studying fashion in Paris, London, and New York. She now resides in London with her husband and children.

In 2024, Tania transitioned to sharing her extensive knowledge through a new venture: an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

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