Nineties heels are back: five models and their original references

Vogue France has a piece on 1990s heels, which are coming back strongly after a long absence. What I liked is that each model is tied to a specific moment in fashion history, which also helps you spot vintage pieces when you dig through shops.

First, the two-tone pumps popularised by Chanel. In 1992 the house immortalised them in its spring-summer show, opened by Linda Evangelista in a black-and-white duo. The versions with a triangular toe are said to work especially well with a suit or with jeans and a tweed jacket, and they came back in the first Chanel show by Matthieu Blazy.

Second reference, heeled loafers. The article recalls the red Ancora loafers from Gucci, worn by Helena Christensen at the autumn-winter 1995-1996 show, with a square toe, gold bit and chunky heel. Miu Miu also offers a white version for a preppy look.

Then come the mule sandals, which capture the spirit of the decade: open or closed at the front, minimal, and worn by tops like Kate Moss and Cindy Crawford. The text also mentions Miu Miu's geometric lines and Prada's Mary Janes.

The article notes that you no longer need to search vintage or second-hand shops, since these models are now sold by luxury houses as well as more affordable brands. I read it the other way round: it is a good list of silhouettes to recognise when you look for original 90s pieces. This return of minimalism and assured elegance also seems a good occasion to look at what is sleeping in the wardrobe.

Source: Vogue France