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Image Not Available for Suede Wedding Shoes
Suede Wedding Shoes
Image Not Available for Suede Wedding Shoes

Suede Wedding Shoes

Manufacturer (Aberdeen, Scotland)
Associated (Mintlaw, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, 1924 - 2016)
Date1941
Object NameShoes
Mediumleather, cotton and elastic
ClassificationsFashion and Dress
DimensionsLength x Height x Width: 240 × 130 × 80mm
AcquisitionThe Peggy Walker Gift.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS076385
About MeThese stylish burgundy suede wedding shoes were worn by a bride with a matching dress and bolero-style jacket suit and a round burgundy felt hat.

During WWII, as women and men entered the services, brides and grooms often wore their uniforms to their weddings. Many civilian brides did not wear a white gown but chose suits instead. These suits usually featured a straight skirt and a semi-fitted jacket with padded shoulders and were complemented by hats or short veils, as fabric was still scarce.

The donor, Peggy Walker, spent her early childhood in the Aberdeenshire countryside until her family moved into central Aberdeen. She taught dressmaking and costume design at the Northern College of Education in Aberdeen. She also made costumes for student shows in her role as wardrobe mistress in the drama department. She was an expert on historical costume and amassed a large collection that was donated to Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums as the Peggy Walker Gift.