Queen Elizabeth’s Coronation Shoes Included A Very Important Symbol

The shoes have been re-issued to celebrate her anniversary - by Penny Goldstone

You might think that younger royals created the trend of adding significant details to their outfits, such as Meghan Markle with her veil, and Kate Middleton with her wedding dress sleeves, but you’d be mistaken.

Long before they arrived on the scene, Queen Elizabeth II was already setting the tone, and on her coronation day no less. While we didn’t see much of her shoes, due to her floor-length ceremonial gown, they were quite significant.

First off, they were designed by Monsieur Roger Vivier, which was quite unusual, as he was the only French designer to have taken part in the momentous occasion.

Secondly, he made sure they were extra special. Created in fine, kidskin gold leather, rubies were added to both heel and upper leather in a decorative motif, which echoed the fleur-de-lys that decorates the St Edward Crown and the Imperial State Crown worn by Her Majesty on the day. The heel was elevated and Roger Vivier created a hidden platform within.

Though of course, these were a one off, the brand’s current creative director Gherardo Felloni is re-issuing them as part of his SS20 collection. The Queen Sandal will feature a delicate fleur de lys motif on the front and a high heel completely covered in crystals, and will be available to buy using the above link at the end of May, to tie in with the 67th Anniversary of the coronation on June 2.

This article originally appeared on Marie Claire U.K.

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