What Are Saddle Shoes?

Shoe styles come and go but saddle shoes have stood the test of time. They are versatile, stylish and appropriate for a variety of occasions.

What Are Saddle Shoes?

A saddle shoe is a formal shoe that is two-toned and made of leather. The most common color scheme is black and white although other colors are available.

Standard Saddle Shoes

In the most common variation the toe and back of the shoe are white and the middle part or instep of the shoe is black. This black part of the shoe that contains the eyelets somewhat resembles a saddle, which is where the name originated.

Saddle Shoe Variations

Saddle shoes can be worn by both men and women. There are a variety of styles ranging from high-end versions for women to the always popular saddle style golf shoes.

Popularity of Saddle Shoes

Saddle shoes were particularly popular in the 1950s and were commonly worn with a poodle skirt. Elvis Presley is credited with raising the profile of saddle shoes as he often wore them onstage. Their popularity died out for awhile around the 1970s but has been enjoying a comeback lately among young adults.

Saddle Shoes Today

Despite their decline in popularity, saddle shoes are still available today at most shoe stores, a testament to their enduring popularity and timeless design.

References

• SaddleShoes.net: Saddle Shoe History