Between 1890 and 1919, women’s shoes reflected both elegance and the shift toward practical fashion. In the 1890s, styles like high-button boots and lace-up shoes made of leather or kid skin were popular, often featuring decorative stitching, two-tone finishes, or silk laces.
As hemlines rose and social roles evolved, shoes became more visible and expressive. The Edwardian era introduced dainty heels, pointed toes, and ornate evening slippers in silk, velvet, or embroidered fabrics.
During World War I, footwear adopted simpler, sturdier designs, often with lower heels and military influences. Yet even these practical styles retained a sense of refinement. From ornamental detailing to functional form, shoes of this era mirrored the changing pace of modern womanhood.