Wedges are a comfortable alternative to unsteady stiletto heels. Staying steadily on trend since their introduction in the 1930s, a wedge heel is a staple in any woman's closet. They offer the height and interest of a heel with the comfort and stability of a flat. Whether it was the wedge and jean combo of the '70s or a more feminine and modern pairing of wedge heels and a summer dress, wedge heels make for a versatile addition to your shoe collection.
History
The wedge heel was first introduced by designer Salvatore Ferragamo in 1935. The first wedge heel was designed to be an orthopedic shoe with a lower wedge for those who couldn't wear traditional heels, according to the book "Walking Dreams: Salvatore Feragamo." A year later, he introduced his first wedge heels, which were daringly high and matched well with the styles of the depression and World War II era. Since then, wedges have remained steadily "in," with wedges being continually featured in modern-day fashion.
Construction
Wedge heels are made to have a low sole in the front of the shoe, which gives way to a thicker sole in the back of the shoe, resulting in a wedge shape when the shoe is turned to the side. The first wedges were made of wood, which soon gave way to cork construction due to the weight of the shoe. Today, wedges are still popular in cork, but they also come in more formal shoe materials, like leather and suede. Wedges can be open-toed or strappy depending on the collection: closed wedges are more popular for fall and winter, while strappy versions are exhibited for spring and summer.
Heel Height
Wedge soles are characteristically taller in the back of the shoe than the front, but that doesn't limit designers in creating a whole slew of heel heights for wedge enthusiasts. Orthopedic shoe brands create lower-heeled wedges for customers that don't want to sacrifice style of comfort, while more daring designers take their wedges sky high for the fashion-conscious. Since wedges are traditionally more comfortable to walk in than stilettos, designers have more freedom in various heel heights and can experiment with new trends.
Trends
Wedges have been designed in a variety of ways, from a serious work loafer to a whimsical wedge sneaker. Since wedges are generally seen as more casual than other heels, they are best when worn with casual outfits. "Glamour" magazine suggests wearing them with vintage denim, and they pair well with summer dresses and full skirts. Because wedges are more substantial than sleeker heels, avoid wearing them with pencil skirts and tight-fitting dresses. Instead, save them for comfort --- at garden parties and casual dinners where you want the height of a heel and the comfort of a sneaker.
References
- "Walking Dreams: Salvatore Ferragamo, 1898-1960": Museo del Palacio de Bellas Artes, Stefania Ricci; 2006
- "Glamour": The Wear-With-Everything Shoe You Need Now: Platform Wedges
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