Traces of the History of Shoes from the Stone Age to the Modern Era, Tucked Between the Straws

Shoe Stories – The long history of shoes dates back to the stone age, where the oldest leather shoes pioneered footwear trends. There is no specific pair of shoes that marks the beginning of footwear history, as shoe shapes and materials varied according to different climates and terrain. Initially, shoes served as a practical necessity to protect the feet, but over time, wearing shoes developed into a fashion trend, reflecting changes in a person’s lifestyle and identity.

The tradition of wearing shoes is believed to have existed long before the discovery of the oldest shoes found. The earliest possible evidence for the emergence of the habit of wearing footwear was found in a 40,000 year old human fossil that had weak toe bones.

National Geographic noted this finding as an indication of humans’ long history of wearing shoes as an integral part of the evolution of civilization. In that period, there was no specific pair of shoes that marked the beginning of the course of footwear history, as shoe shapes and materials varied according to different climates and terrain.

In the north, shoes are made of thick leather and filled with fur and straw to provide warmth, while in the south, most people wear footwear made from coconut leaves or papyrus fiber. Shoes were originally worn as a practical necessity to protect the feet, but over time the use of shoes has developed into a fashion trend.

People no longer wear shoes just for their use, but also to keep up with developments in style and lifestyle. Nowadays, shoes not only function as protection or accessories, but also become a representation of an individual’s identity and fashion taste.

1. Oetzi Shoes

In 1991, archaeological research in the Austrian Alps revealed an interesting discovery in the form of a human mummy named Oetzi, who is believed to have lived in the Stone Age around 5,300 years ago.

This rare existence is even more special because Oetzi was found still wearing leather shoes. The shoes appear to have been specially designed for snow, having waterproof properties and wide soles made of bearskin, while the uppers are made of deerskin.

The mesh of the shoe was made from tree bark, and straw was placed around the foot inside the shoe, resembling the function of modern socks. Although the stitching was small and unreliable considering the limited tools of the time, Oetzi’s shoes provide an interesting insight into the ingenuity of prehistoric humans in adapting to their natural environment.

Oetzi’s shoes are a silent witness to humanity’s long journey in finding creative solutions to survive in extreme natural conditions.

2. Armenian Leather Shoes

In archaeological excavations carried out in the Armenian Caves, an interesting discovery emerged with the discovery of the oldest leather shoes that were still in good condition.

Based on radiocarbon dates, these shoes are thought to date from around 3,500 BC, during the time of Armenian metalwork. The shoes were found filled with grass and had a shape similar to Moccasins, namely shoes without heels made of soft-textured leather, in this case, a piece of cowhide. Leather straps are used to sew the front and heel of the shoe.

These shoes, when worn, can cover the heel and toe areas. Interestingly, these shoes could be owned by both men and women, due to the lack of information about Armenian feet at that time.

In terms of size, when compared with modern foot sizes, these shoes are more similar to women’s feet, which is around size 7 in US sizes. These findings provide a unique insight into the historical development of shoes and the lifestyle of Armenian people in the past, while preserving the charm and uniqueness of ancient shoe designs.

3. Egyptian shoes

This flat, boat-shaped shoe is one of the extraordinary achievements in design from Ancient Egypt, around 1550 BC. What makes this shoe different is that it is made from woven fur, giving the impression of being light and flexible when used.

The shoelaces are produced from long, thin reeds, which are then lined with wider strips of reed, adding a unique aesthetic touch.

The practicality of this shoe shape reflects the ingenuity of shoe designers at that time in creating comfortable and functional footwear. What is interesting is that this shoe design style was still relevant until the 19th century, showing the persistence and resilience of innovative ideas in the world of fashion.

These findings not only provide insight into advances in shoemaking technology during Ancient Egypt, but also reflect a legacy of creativity in the history of the evolution of footwear design that continues to develop over time.

4. Hemp Shoes

A historic discovery emerged through archaeological excavations on the ancient silk route, northern Dunhuang, China, with a shoe dating from 68-56 BC.

These shoes are made from several layers of hemp plants sewn together using a technique similar to patchwork or quilting. Apart from functioning as footwear, the stitching on these shoes also has decorative elements that add to the overall aesthetic beauty.

Apart from being proof of the expertise in using the hemp plant as the main material, these shoes also reflect the level of detail and beauty in the manufacturing process. Similar shoes can even be found on the feet of terracotta soldiers in Xi’an, demonstrating the continuity of this style and footwear manufacturing technique within the broader cultural context of the time.

5. Foot Splint Shoes

A unique trace in the history of fashion emerged from the Chinese imperial environment during the Song Dynasty in the 10th century AD, namely the types of shoes that were likely worn by women during that period.

At that time, the practice of leg binding became part of common culture, especially among women with higher social status. This practice aims to inhibit foot growth and keep feet small, around 8 cm, which was considered the standard of beauty at that time.

Foot splinting not only served as a beauty norm, but also reflected the social hierarchy and norms of elegance of imperial China. This phenomenon reflects the unique history of appearance and beauty norms in that society.

In 1911, with the end of the imperial period, the practice of foot binding was formalized by the government as a step towards social change and gender equality. Thus, these shoe prints not only reflect transformations in fashion, but also involve significant social and policy changes in China in the 20th century.

6. Poulaine

In the 12th century, shoemakers in Europe started a unique trend by creating pointed-toed shoes known as poulaines. These shoes have a very narrow toe and are made of leather, creating an elegant yet extreme look.

In the late 14th century, the poulaine form reached its peak with shoes that had a very sharp toe and tapered upwards. However, the popularity of poulaine has not only had a positive impact. In those days, many people became victims of fashion, especially among the nobility.

Some of them even partied in shoes so long and narrow that they were forced to tie the ends of their shoes with elastic bands placed around the knees. The English court environment was renowned for the extremes of this style. As a result, poulaine users experience difficulty walking.

This condition reached an alarming level until the government finally issued a regulation regulating the length of shoes. This rule is necessary to limit shoe sizes and reduce the risk of injury and mobility difficulties caused by extreme fashion trends.

7. Round Toe Shoes

In the early 16th century in England, the variety of shoes was very diverse. Children’s shoes at that time generally had round toes and were made of leather. One striking feature is the presence of a single hook strap at the top of the shoe, which runs from one side to the other.

This shoe model, with its simple but functional design touches, has made an impression in fashion history and can still be found today, especially as a shoe model for children.

This ergonomic and comfortable design has become an icon in the development of children’s shoes over time. Through the evolution of fashion, these shoes have persisted as a popular option for providing comfort and practicality to children, showing how shoe designs from the past can provide inspiration and legacy for future generations.

8. Cocor Bebek Shoes

In the 16th century, the world of fashion experienced significant changes in shoe design. Shoes not only became shorter, but also adopted a more rounded toe, introducing the cocorbek shoe trend to the fashion world.

An interesting example can be found in a 1536 painting depicting King Henry VIII of England wearing the most advanced clothing of the time. The king looked elegant in Cocor Duck shoes which had a cut-patterned top layer.

These shoes are characterized by a rounded toe, creating the illusion of a duck’s bill being extended. To increase comfort and provide a wider shape, these shoes are equipped with special cushioning. These design innovations not only reflect changes in fashion preferences of the time, but also provide insight into how shoes could have been symbols of status and lifestyle in the past.

9. High Heels

During the Renaissance period, European kings wore very high heels as a symbol of their supremacy and high status. These shoes are not only a fashion accessory, but also a tool to emphasize power and majesty.

The use of high-heeled shoes by kings allowed them to still look elegant and feel dominant, even when crossing waterholes, because the height of their heels sometimes reached an astonishing size, reaching 30 cm.

One famous figure who played an important role in the popularity of high heels was King Louis XIV of France. His courage in wearing high and luxurious shoes created a trend that quickly spread among European nobility. This trend not only reflected the fashion sense of the time, but also became a highly respected visual manifestation of power and nobility.

10. Chopine

Chopines, a type of platform shoe, reached the peak of their popularity in the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries in Venice.

Although originally used as a practical tool to protect shoes and clothing from the mud and dirt of the streets, Chopine evolved into more than just functional footwear. First introduced by courtesans, the chopine was later adopted by noblewomen, becoming a prominent symbol of social status from the 15th to 17th centuries.

Chopine not only served as a shoe protector, but also as an indicator of social status. The higher the chopine heel, the higher the wearer’s social status. At the peak of their popularity during the Renaissance, some chopines even reached heights of over 50 cm.

In 1430, the Venetian government tried to control this trend by limiting the height of chopines to three inches through legislation. However, these rules were often ignored, showing that interest in fashion and the symbolism of social status could often overcome the legal restrictions of the time.

11. Baroque Style (Baroque)

As an art, this style developed in Europe around the 16th to 18th centuries. It is characterized by a complex style and a penchant for grandeur and luxury. This style also influences fashion, especially shoe models. Velvet, satin, silk, floral decorations and gemstones colored the shoes of this era. It is worn by both men and women. Great skills are also needed for shoemakers. There are no cooked products in this era, because each pair of shoes is made by hand,

Especially when Charles II was restored to the throne in 1660 there was another change in fashion. Red heels became popular in England. Primarily, this shoe style is to show status, both for women and men.

12. Leather Boots

In the 18th century, the world faced great challenges, including the Napoleonic Wars that rocked Europe. After the war passed and entered the 19th century, there were significant changes in the world of fashion, especially in shoe designs which became more practical. This shift reflects adaptation to society’s needs and preferences after the difficult war years.

In the 19th century, shoe models began to differentiate between men and women. At the same time, this trend marked the end of the dominance of high heels for men, as more practical and functional models became more popular. Women, on the other hand, tend to choose shoes that are more fashionable and often more diverse in design.

13. Trendy Shoes

In the second half of the 20th century, shoe trends emerged that were influenced by the success of American pop culture. In this period, the drive to be different, unique, and part of a particular subculture increasingly influenced the image of men and women.

Along with the development of different lifestyles, more affordable raw materials, and new structures, the world of footwear is experiencing a significant transformation. Previously, luxurious and high-quality shoes were replaced by footwear that was more fashionable and always followed color trends.

Hollywood actors and singers play an important role in shaping the popularity of certain shoe models. For example, The Beatles brought the popularity of Chelsea shoes to a global level, while actress Audrey Hepburn took kitten heels to the peak of their popularity.

The influence of this cultural icon is not only limited to the small screen, but has also become an integral part of people’s daily lives. The transformation in shoe design reflects shifting values and norms in society, where lifestyle and self-expression are increasingly becoming a primary focus. At this point, shoes are not just an ordinary accessory, but also a statement of style and cultural identity.