Fascinating Footwear: Short History of Shoes


Learning and Interpretation
August 13, 2015

Join us in September for a fantastic short course on this history of shoes led by Fiona Campbell, lecturer at the London College of Fashion and designer/maker of shoes!

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3 Day Short Course

30 September, 14.30-17.00

1 October, 10.30-13.00

2 October, 14.30-17.00

£125 / £110 concessions

 

Due to the success of the Shoes: Pleasure and Pain exhibition, the V&A has organised this short course to explore the rich and fascinating history of Shoes from the introduction of the humble sandal in ancient times to the ever higher heels and flamboyant styles of the present day.

The history of shoes has included a huge variety of different designs – from the fashionably functional to seductive statement. Highpoints include the pointed shoes of the middle ages when the length of the toe was an indication of status, and the emergence of the heel, first for men and then for women in the later Renaissance period. The dashing Cavalier knee boots of the Restoration were followed by the introduction of increasingly elaborate buckles, and then dainty mules made out of exquisite silks and satins. The 19th & 20th century has seen many changes in both production and design from the button boot to 1920s bar shoes giving way to 1940s utility styles, 1950s stilettoes, 1970s platform soles, and today’s innovative statement shoes.

In this exciting new short course, Fiona Campbell examines the principal styles, techniques and cultural connotations related to the history of shoes. If you have an interest in shoes, or enjoyed the exhibition, and are keen to learn more please contact the bookings office on 020 7942 2211 or book online. Tell your friends and see you in September!

About the author


Learning and Interpretation
August 13, 2015

I'm Team Leader for Digital Programmes at the V&A and run events, workshops, talks and festivals with artists and designers who use and experiment with digital tools, processes and manufacturing.

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