Shoes

The Osgood collection comprises 179 objects, chiefly fashionable Italian-made women's shoes dating from the years 1954 to 1958. The shoes were collected by Charline Osgood, Director of the Kid Leather Guild, a trade organization of American kid leather manufacturers. Highlighting the use of kid leather in footwear, the collection provides a fascinating and enticing view of high-style European shoe design from the period, representing many of the finest and most inventive Italian makers.
The child's ankle-strap flat is a classic shoe design, and this interesting and attractive variation shows what Osgood called the "Modern Functionalist" interpretation of its elements. The natural beauty of the material is highlighted by a simple cut and absence of added ornamentation. The supple suede kidskin upper allows for a comfortable fit with an extremely simple, one-seam construction. The piping continues logically as a tie, serving both for function and decorative effect.