The Fifties

The stiletto heel – a tall, slim heel with a metal spike embedded in the centre for strength – was perhaps the most recognisable innovation in footwear in the 50’s.

Leather was popular after the war rations ceased, but it was being rivalled by new, synthetic materials. Plastics began to replace leather for women’s shoes as early as 1958, and by the late 60’s, the vast majority of shoes were made of a material other than leather.