1910-1919
1910-1919
1920-1929
1920-1929
1930-1939
1930-1939
Start Exhibit Table of Contents Home Search this exhibit

1910-1919
The Louis heel regained popularity for boots and shoes. In the beginning of the decade both styles of footwear featured rounded toes, until later in the decade when toe shapes became pointed. As skirt lengths shortened, boot tops became taller, reaching up to 9" high. Toward the end of the decade, under the influence of World War I, women's footwear became more masculine in nature with plainer styles and colors.

1920-1929
The Spanish heel, with tall straight sides became popular in the mid decade. Shoe toes were oval, round or pointed with cutouts on the sides and vamp. Reptile skin, both real and imitation became popular along with suede, satin and patent leather. Boots faded in popularity at this time.

1930-1939
The 1930s brought about new innovations in shoe wear: modern beach sandals were developed in 1931; the wedge heel in 1936; open toe and sling backs were developed in 1938. Daytime shoe colors were generally somber, like brown, blue, green and black with evening shoe colors matching the ensemble.



Please come visit your Nevada State Museum & Bretzlaff History Resource Center. 600 N. Carson St. Carson City, NV 89701 Hours: 8:30 to 4:30 daily 775/687-4810, x239 or x240. The Nevada State Museum's Marjorie Russell Clothing and Textile Research Center accepts visitors by appointment. Please call Jan Loverin at 775/687-6173.  jloverin@nevadaculture.org