Collections Research volunteer, Isabella has delved into the fascinating history behind a pair of women’s boots that were recently featured in the 1001 Remarkable Objects exhibition at the Powerhouse Ultimo. These boots (Object No: A9389), designed by the legendary André Courrèges, are a perfect representation of the designer’s innovative vision and his revolutionary influence on 1960s fashion.
Made from cream plastic and vinyl, these boots embody the futuristic aesthetic that André Courrèges revolutionized throughout his career. Created in Paris in the mid-1970s, they showcase Courrèges’ commitment to clean lines, modern materials, and functional yet stylish design. Featuring a rounded square toe, low stacked leather heel, and a decorative centre-front seam.
Originally trained as a civil engineer, Courrèges held a lifelong interest in science and technology which came to heavily influence his approach to fashion design. For his designs Courrèges experimented with specialised synthetic materials which had traditionally only been used within the military and aviation industries such as metal, plastic and PVC. Designing during the women’s liberation movement Courrèges desired to create clothing that was functional, comfortable and liberating for the modern woman. Courrèges’ designs embraced functional sportswear materials, loose fitting a-line silhouettes inspired by childrenswear, and flat shoes or boots which would enable the modern woman to run, dance and bound through life reflecting the exuberance and increased social freedoms of the age.
https://youtu.be/DUd2_j9LHg4?si=T_BkdBU6DshepJtFThese boots are a striking example of how fashion reflects social, cultural, and technological change. A big thank you to Isabella for her research in bringing the story of these boots to life!
Written and researched by Collections Research volunteer, Isabella