The Style Files: Living on the Wedge

In 1930 when Salvatore Ferragamo invented the wedge, women around the world breathed a collective sigh of relief! Here was a shoe that was enchanting, gave height, was stylish and comfortable  all in one. Since its inception, the modern wedge has been constantly reworked and reinvented by luxury footwear designers and is the must have statement shoe for spring 2015.

Photo courtesy Avirate

“The wedge is not too serious,” says the shoe designer, whose red-soled creations are synonymous with sexy footwear, Christian Louboutin, “There is a playful mood to the wedge. You get the height but also have great balance so they are both easy to walk and stand in.”

Who can forget that iconic image of Kate Middleton emerging from Buckingham palace as the Duchess of Cambridge, a fully fledged member of the royal family in a pair of LK Bennent black wedges.

The wedge appeals to designers because there is so much surface area to play with. They can be designed with interesting fabrics, stacked using different materials or embellished with everything from studs to Swarovski crystals. New technology has made it possible to try out myriad widths, cut-away angles and heel-less wedges.

The wedge appeals to consumers as a wedge adds the height wanted in a shoe, but is somewhat less formal than a high-heel stiletto. It’s practicality and comfort while remaining fashionable are huge selling points as well.

Wedges pair beautifully with spring dresses and also lent that seventies vibe (which is one of the hottest trends at the moment) when paired with flared jeans or pants. When you wear pants you don’t always see the wedge, so it gives the impression of having extra long legs. I don’t think there are many women out there who would wish for shorter legs!

By Minoli Ratnayake