These archival designer shoes were considered the “it” shoes of their time—it’s time to revisit and reappreciate them again.
They say shoes are made for walking, but for some, shoes are made to be statement pieces. In a TikTok video, Elysia Berman, the Design Director for Bobbi Brown, explained that they do not make shoes like they used to. Strolling down memory lane, she enumerated some “it” shoes from the last two decades. Truly, designer shoes from the past defined the footwear trends of the early 2000s and 2010s.
Some people have decided to bury these shoes in their closets while others have put them up for re-sale. However, owning and wearing these shoes are precious—archival designer pieces will surely set you apart from the crowd. From Gucci by Tom Ford to Dior by John Galliano, these shoes are for wearing and displaying.
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Yves Saint Laurent
Before officially abbreviating their name to YSL, Yves Saint Laurent released one of the most iconic shoes of the 2000s. The Yves Saint Laurent Cage Boots from the Spring/Summer 2009 collection is an archival gem. The metal cage heel paired with a cage-like patent leather pattern is truly an amazing design feat. Moreover, it brings out the edgy side of anyone who wears it.
Prada
Muccia Prada is known as one of the stalwart pillars of the fashion industry. Her design prowess truly stands the test of time. Moving over to one of her iconic creations, the Prada Chandelier shoes from the Spring/Summer 2010 collection is a collector piece. The simple transparent heel and PVC strap adorned with chandelier embellishments is a beautiful piece for special occasions.
Balenciaga
A shoe worn by Beyoncè herself, the Colorblock ‘Lego’ Heels by Nicolas Ghesquière for Balenciaga, is definitely a collector piece. The Lacquered open-toe sandals made their debut on the runway during the Fall/Winter 2007 Runway Collection. Moreover, the colorful and playful piece is one of the most sought-after designer shoes from its era—truly a piece deserving to be displayed whether worn or in a closet.
Gucci
Tom Ford for Gucci is a moment in fashion history that will always be remembered. Bringing “sex” to the runway, Ford made a lot of notable pieces during his tenure as the creative director of the Italian brand. Moreover, the Satin Croc Lace Up Heels by Tom Ford for Gucci are beautiful shoes perfect for any occasion. The satin leather lace-up tie heels sport a satin rouleau corset-style construction—intricate yet beautiful.
Christian Dior
From one iconic creative director to another, John Galliano for Dior is forever iconic. Being the creator of the ever-famous Dior Saddle bag, he also designed the black studded feather tassel heels from the 2000s. It is a classic leather shoe adorned with studs and accented by a faux feather tassel, a simple yet effective way to mirror the grunge movement of the early 2000s.
Banner photo by MJ Calayan via Vestiaire Collective, Into Archive, ReSee, The Luxury Closet, and Vestiaire Collective.
