Wedging out
If wedges are your knight in shining armor during style crisis days, you have Salvatore Ferragamo to thank. It was 1940 when Italy plunged into a crisis for its economic sanctions against it and Salvatore Ferragamo could no longer purchase steel for his traditional heels. He experimented with pieces of
Sardinian cork, pushing and gluing and fixing and trimming until the entire space between the sole and the heel was blocked solid. After a few weeks, it became one of the most popular styles.
Soon designers around the world adapted the style and the cork became more popular than wood as it was lighter, sturdier, and more durable.
During World War II wedges became popular as leather and rubber were not easily available in the US. Since the fashion of that time called for height, wedges soon became popular; it added to the height (wedges went up to 5 inches during this time period) and walking in wedges was easier compared to skinny heels.
It made a comeback in the 1970's with louder, more colorful designs. One design even allowed a
goldfish to live in the heel! Around this time, both, men and women started wearing wedges. By the 90's they had gained popularity all over the world. High wedge sneakers could be seen on celebrities like British pop band The Spice Girls.
Since then, heels made of cork and wrapped in rope is one style option, the others being both straps and ankle wraps. Designers are offering up a mixed bag of wedges. You'll find everything from suede gladiators to sleek python lofters. There are tiny wedge sandals and towering raffia steps, as well.
Heels are worn to make the legs longer, the body thinner and improve posture. Wedges are easier to balance and provide more arch support, reducing foot and ankle problems.
To shop for the best wedge sandals come to Beverlyheels for some planned shopping or just some binge shopping...
