Vintage shoe shopping: 1940s shoes update

In last week’s vintage shoe shopping guide, I argued that 1940s shoes weren’t worth bothering with. Here’s the evidence.

It may have been different in other countries, but in Britain clothing was strictly rationed during the Second World War. By the time the war ended, there weren’t many pristine shoes left sitting in closets. Everything – including footwear – was taken in a bit here, turned out there and worn to death. Quality and luxury were low on the priority list.

The photograph above was taken in Mayfair at the turn of 1940s/1950s. It’s deliciously Mad Men though, isn’t it? The bright young thing on the end of the row, clutching her glass of champers for all it’s worth, is my Frugal Grandma. Anyway, they all look glam and stylish, from their hairdos

down to their ankles. And then….

ARGGGH! It’s the Attack of the Saggy Wedges!

Here’s another one taken in 1945. It’s my Frugal Grandma again; I’ve zoomed in on her feet.

I mean, what are those things? They look like Cornish pasties. Avoid avoid avoid.

Mind you, I reckon my foxy young Gramps was able to rise above the heinous footwear after all.