In the early Baroque period, shoes and stockings were far more than practical items of clothing. Wealthy women, in particular, placed great importance on these small details matching the rest of their attire and emphasizing their social status.
In the 17th century, stockings were mostly made of silk, wool, or linen. Wealthy women wore fine silk stockings, often in white, cream, or delicate pastel shades. Women of simpler means, however, tended to wear wool or linen. Particularly popular were so-called "clocks" – decorative embroideries or woven patterns on the side of the ankle or along the calf. These embellishments could be floral, ornamental, or geometric, lending an elegant effect even to plain stockings.
The stockings usually reached just above the knee and were fastened there with garters. Lace or large bows at the top edge, as often seen in modern depictions today, did not exist back then. The look was significantly simpler and clung more closely to the leg.
Baroque shoes were also strikingly designed. In the early 17th century, the toes were often narrow and slightly pointed. Later, they became somewhat rounder but remained elegant and finely crafted. Many shoes were made of silk or brocade and were decorated with embroidery, floral patterns, or small metallic details.
Medium-height heels were typical, which did not run straight down but curved inward. This made the shoes appear particularly elegant and feminine. Many models had a fabric rosette, bow, or buckle at the front. On some shoes, the fabric was pulled through a hollow metal buckle, making the embellishment appear particularly sculptural.
The colors of the shoes were often surprisingly bright: cream, silver, gold, light blue, or delicate rose tones were popular. Patterned fabrics with floral embroidery were also common. Wealthy women often owned several pairs of shoes that matched specific dresses in color.
Baroque paintings clearly show how important shoes and stockings were for the overall impression. Even if they only peeked out from under the dress, they were carefully chosen and richly decorated. They were part of the luxury of the time and demonstrated that elegance in the Baroque extended to the smallest details.
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