Publication Date

Spring 3-19-2026

Presentation Length

Poster/Gallery presentation

College

O'More College of Architecture & Design

Department

Fashion Design and Merchandising

Student Level

Undergraduate

Faculty Mentor

Priscilla Njeri Gitimu

Presentation Type

Poster

Summary

Have you ever fallen head over heels for the most unique shoes that make you question their practicality? You wouldn’t be the first. With this project, you will step into the history of extravagant shoewear, from 14th-century Europe to Imperial China, and explore how they have influenced modern extravagance in shoewear. These shoes symbolize everything from social rank to wealth, status, and beauty. While these shoes are all interesting fashion structures, they also caused many issues for both men and women by pushing physical limits, and history reflects evolving beauty standards shaped by societal pressure, often requiring wearers to embrace discomfort and even danger in the pursuit of beauty. The pieces were and continue to be indicators of their era, showcasing the culture of the time, and influencing shoe designers today. So next time you see a celebrity dressed in tall, ornate, or even ridiculous shoes, you’ll know their origin.

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