The Shoes that Sold for $28 million
You might recall that earlier this year the famous ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz sold at auction for an astonishing $28 million, making them the most valuable movie memorabilia of all time, we take a look into why the ruby slippers are so universally adored and their importance in movie history and fashion.
The Ruby Slippers: A Magical History
The ruby slippers, worn by Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale in the 1939 classic film The Wizard of Oz, have become iconic symbols of cinematic magic. Beyond their dazzling appearance, these slippers are shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Let’s delve into their fascinating history and explore some lesser-known facts. Plus, if you’re after a pair of sparkling ruby slippers for yourself, we highly recommend these shoes and these!
The Creation of a Cinematic Icon
The ruby slippers were the brainchild of MGM costume designer Gilbert Adrian. Inspired by a pair of ruby glass earrings, Adrian envisioned a pair of shoes that would sparkle and shimmer under the studio lights. The task of crafting these magical footwear fell to a team of skilled artisans.
The process of creating the ruby slippers was painstaking and time-consuming. Each pair was meticulously handcrafted, with tiny pieces of ruby glass individually applied to the satin base. This labor-intensive process required immense skill and patience.
The decision to make the slippers ruby red was a deliberate choice. Red was a color associated with good luck and prosperity, and it perfectly complemented the vibrant colors of the film’s sets and costumes. Moreover, the ruby hue would stand out on the black-and-white television screens of the time, making them even more eye-catching.
The Significance of the Ruby Slippers in the Film
In The Wizard of Oz, the ruby slippers represent a powerful symbol of hope, magic, and the power of belief. They are the key to Dorothy’s return home, gifting her the ability to transport herself back to Kansas simply by clicking her heels together three times and uttering the magical phrase, “There’s no place like home.” Didn’t we all want a pair of these shoes growing up?!
The Size of the Ruby Slippers
The ruby slippers were custom-made to fit Judy Garland’s feet. While the exact size is unknown, it’s estimated that they were around a size 5 or 6.
The Enduring Allure of the Ruby Slippers
The ruby slippers continue to captivate movie fans and fashion collectors alike. Their timeless design and association with one of the most beloved films of all time have made them cultural icons. The slippers’ combination of elegance, glamour, and magical power has solidified their place in popular culture.
It is wonderful to see a classic movie like The Wizard of Oz being honoured and appreciated all these years. Clearly the shoe collector who purchased these precious shoes beats outperforms Carrie Bradshaw in terms of their love for extravagant footwear! Own your own pair of ruby slippers now – we love these flats and these replicas of the ruby slippers worn in The Wizard of Oz! *Adds to cart*
