Some of us have those essential pieces we gravitate towards no matter how our style evolves. Bloggers often refer to these as “Loves”.
One of my “loves” is the vintage Vara Court shoe from Hollywood Golden Age shoe designer Salvatore Ferragamo.
I recently acquired a second pair, in Easter-shoe white with classic grosgrain ribbon bow, at a local consignment store called Kostum. Bonus: the shoe appears to be the same style that Audrey Hepburn wore with the cream and white Givenchy ensemble in “How to Steal a Million” pictured below.
I had been on the hunt for these shoes for awhile, visiting a drop down list of vintage shops in my area (notably The Rare Bird, Mercy Vintage Now, and the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop). The shop girls must have gotten used to me sweeping into their store (wearing my signature Oliver Goldsmith Breakfast at Tiffanys sunglasses) making a bee-line for the shoe rack, and then quickly disappearing after a hyper-focused examination of their stock.
Recently I asked myself , “What do I love about the vintage Vara style pumps?”
Quality – For those of you who have tried, you know it’s not easy to find a vintage shoe that has maintained it’s structural integrity to be walked in. These shoes are the exception as the material and construction stand the test of time.
Nostalgia – I’m not the only one who wants to relive the ladylike fashion of the 60’s & 70’s. When I want to feel particularly Audrey I slip on the Vara and I’m instantly transformed (Henry Mancini soundtrack playing in my head).
Versatility – On its own, the Vara may scream “Lil ol’ lady”. To liven up this otherwise formal shoe I pair with flared jeans or a classic trench coat and slim pencilskirt.
So, How do you walk in another person’s shoes – literally?
I know what you’re thinking, the idea of wearing another person’s shoes, especially old vintage ones, Eww. I totally agree with you. I have passed up MANY pairs for that reason and only buy the ones with the cleanest odor-free interior. Even after that I take the shoe to a cobbler to replace the insole and heels, which often are worn to fit the previous owner’s walking pattern. Your walk in another person’s shoes should be figurative after all.
Xoxo,
Kairee Tann, TenKeyPieces
