The Most Expensive Vintage Shoes Ever Sold
There’s something about vintage shoes that capture the imaginations of collectors around the world. Perhaps it’s the craftsmanship, the style, or the history behind them. Whatever the reason, vintage shoes have become big business in recent years, with collectors willing to pay a small fortune for a pair of shoes that are decades or even centuries old.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the most expensive vintage shoes ever sold, from diamond-encrusted stilettos to ruby slippers that once graced the feet of Hollywood legends.
1. Most Expensive vintage shoes : Tom Ford’s Diamond-Encrusted Stilettos
In 2013, fashion designer Tom Ford released a limited edition line of stilettos that were covered in 4,400 diamonds. The shoes were made from silver leather and featured a 4.5-inch heel. Only one pair was ever made, and they sold for a whopping $2 million at a charity auction.
2. Most Expensive vintage shoes: Stuart Weitzman’s Ruby Slippers
Stuart Weitzman is known for creating some of the most expensive shoes in the world, and his ruby slippers are no exception. These shoes were made with 643 rubies and 123 karats of diamonds, and they sold for $1.6 million. The shoes were inspired by the ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the Wizard of Oz, and they were created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the film.
3. Most Expensive vintage shoes: Debbie Wingham’s Heels with Real Diamonds
In 2017, British designer Debbie Wingham created a pair of high heels that were covered in 1,000 diamonds. The shoes took six months to create and were made from real gold. They sold for $15.1 million, making them the most expensive shoes ever sold at the time.
5. Most Expensive vintage shoes: Harry Winston’s Ruby and Diamond Slippers
Harry Winston is known for creating some of the most expensive jewelry in the world, and his ruby and diamond slippers are no exception. These shoes were made with 1,350 carats of rubies and 50 carats of diamonds. They were created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Wizard of Oz and were sold for $3 million.
6. Most Expensive: Stuart Weitzman’s Tanzanite Heels
Stuart Weitzman’s Tanzanite Heels are made with 595 carats of tanzanite and 123 karats of diamonds. They sold for $2 million at a charity auction in 2009. The shoes were inspired by the beauty of the Tanzanite gemstone, which is only found in one place in the world – Tanzania.
7. Most Expensive: The Ruby Slippers from ‘The Wizard of Oz’
The most expensive vintage shoes ever sold are the ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the Wizard of Oz. There were four pairs made for the movie, but only one is known to exist today. The shoes were sold at auction for $2.6 million in 2011, making them the most expensive shoes ever sold. The buyer was not revealed, but it’s believed that they were purchased by a wealthy collector.
Vintage shoes are more than just footwear – they’re pieces of art that have stood the test of time. From diamond-encrusted stilettos to ruby slippers, the most expensive vintage shoes ever sold are a testament to the beauty and craftsmanship of the past. While most of us can only dream of owning such treasures, it’s fascinating to see the incredible prices that collectors are willing to pay for a piece of history.
FAQ
- What is the most expensive vintage shoe ever sold?
The most expensive vintage shoe ever sold is the “Moon Shoe” by Nike, which sold for $437,500 in 2019.
- What makes vintage shoes so valuable?
Vintage shoes are considered valuable because of their rarity, historical significance, and unique design. They are often associated with a particular era or cultural moment, making them highly sought after by collectors.
- Who are the collectors that purchase these vintage shoes?
Collectors of vintage shoes come from all walks of life and can include celebrities, athletes, fashion designers, and wealthy individuals who have an interest in fashion or sneaker culture.
- Are there any particular brands or designers that fetch higher prices?
Yes, certain brands and designers are more highly valued in the vintage shoe market. Some of the most popular brands include Nike, Adidas, Converse, and Puma, while designers such as Christian Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik are also highly sought after.
- How can I go about finding and purchasing vintage shoes for my own collection?
Vintage shoes can be found at specialty boutiques, online marketplaces, and vintage shops. It’s important to do your research and make sure you’re purchasing from a reputable seller who can authenticate the shoes and provide a detailed history of their provenance. Keep in mind that vintage shoes can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget and only purchase shoes that fit within your means.