Historical information

Starting in around 1850, women began wearing boots that resembled the ones already worn by men in high society. Women’s Victorian boots were slightly more feminine in nature, however, than those worn by their male counterparts. The boots first worn by women extended to the middle of the calf so that her ankle would stay properly covered underneath her many skirts. These boots often featured laces or a row of buttons to keep them secure to the foot and ankle. Although usually made from durable materials like rubber and leather, boots that were worn purely for fashion were sometimes made of more elegant materials like patent leather or dyed suede. Fashion boots from the Victorian era exude all of the opulence and decadence that are unique to that time period. Design elements like scalloped trims, intricate embroidery, and lace accents were also not uncommon when it came to elaborately designed Victorian boots. Unlike men’s boots, they also boasted a slight heel that was thinner and more feminine in design. How lavish a woman’s boots were greatly depended upon how much money her family had and her place within society. While footwear was standard during this time, shoes were still quite a luxury to the modern Victorian. Only very wealthy women owned multiple pairs of boots that featured eye-catching design elements.

https://www.wardrobeshop.com/blogs/victorian-era/an-in-depth-look-at-victorian-footwear

These boots appear to be of a practical nature, designed for comfort, warmth, and proof against the rain and mud, rather than high fashion.

Significance

These ladies' boots are historically significant for their manufacture and use during the Victorian period.

Physical description

Pair of ankle length black ladies' boots with long tan coloured laces.