Boots and Shoes

An illustrated catalog of footwear for the men and women of the Victorian era, this 1883 volume includes measurement tables and diagrams of the various types of toes, heels and materials for shoes of the day. During much of the 19th century, men wore boots made of leather or, beginning in the 1850s, rubber. It was also acceptable for women to wear boots, especially when walking, riding horses, hunting or partaking in other outdoor activities. Most often, women wore shoes with embellishments like flowers, lace or beading. All shoes and boots, for men and women, were typically worn with heels and pointed toes.