KCIDigital Archives

The KCI Digital Archives on the KCI website presents image and text information for the objects in the collection, arranged in chronological order.

Pumps

© The Kyoto Costume Institute, photo by Masayuki Hayashi

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Pumps

Late 1950s

Designer
Roger Vivier
Brand
Christian Dior
Label
Christian Dior créé par Roger Vivier RITZ
Material
Ice-green silk twill with black dot print; ribbon ornamentation.
Inventory Number(s)
AC5419 86-31-3AB

Shown here is a pair of pumps created by Roger Vivier for Christian Dior. The delicate toes and heels are typical of 1950s styles. Haute Couture houses provided not only dresses but also accessories such as bags and shoes, to offer totally coordinated luxury fashions to their customers.
Vivier, who was known as the couturier of shoes, became independent in 1937, and started making shoes for Dior from 1953. His eloquent shoes were a perfect match for the elegant and gorgeous Dior dresses. His shoes were worn by Queen Elizabeth II (1926–) during her coronation, and many famous people, including the Duchess of Windsor (1896–1986), and Elizabeth Taylor (1932–), were captivated by Vivier-designed shoes.

1950s