Fashion trends cycle back into popularity, but some items that were once wardrobe staples have become relics of the past. One such item is the high heel pad—a seemingly small accessory that, for generations of women, was a game-changer in comfort. Younger generations may not fully understand its significance, but for women in the past, it was essential. Let’s take a journey into the history of this often-overlooked accessory, along with other vintage fashion items that held unique value for generations before us.
The High Heel Pad: A Lifesaver in a High-Heeled World
The high heel pad was a practical accessory, widely used by women to make wearing high heels more bearable. Made from foam or gel, these inserts were placed in the heel area of the shoe to provide extra cushioning, reduce friction, and prevent painful blisters. For women in past decades who wore heels daily—whether for work, social events, or simply as a norm—high heel pads were invaluable.
Women in previous generations didn’t have the luxury of today’s varied footwear options. High heels were not just for special occasions; they were part of everyday wear. Women relied on high heel pads to cope with long hours of standing and walking, especially as they juggled household responsibilities, child-rearing, and careers. The pads were small but made a big difference in comfort and quality of life.
High Heel Pads Through the Years: Yesterday and Today
While high heels are less dominant in today’s fashion scene, high heel pads remain available for those who still love dressing up. Modern women may not wear heels as frequently, but when they do, the discomfort is still real. High heel pads have evolved with new materials and technology, offering even better support and cushioning. Yet, the concept remains the same—a small addition that saves feet from the aches and pains of fashionable footwear.
However, high heel pads aren’t the only fashion accessory lost to the past. Let’s take a look at some other vintage brands and items that were once cherished but are now largely forgotten.
Forgotten Vintage Fashion Brands and Accessories
As fashion evolved, so did the demand for certain brands and accessories. Many of these were at the height of popularity during their time, but as trends shifted, they faded away. Yet, each of these brands holds a special place in fashion history.
Gunne Sax: The Icon of Romantic Fashion
Founded in San Francisco in 1967, Gunne Sax was a beloved brand that crafted dresses inspired by prairie, Victorian, and Renaissance styles. This romantic and nostalgic approach to fashion resonated with many women, especially during the 1970s. Gunne Sax dresses were known for their lace, floral patterns, and flowing designs. Even Hillary Clinton wore a Gunne Sax wedding dress when she married Bill Clinton in 1975.
While Gunne Sax is no longer in business, its creations are highly valued as vintage collectibles today. The brand’s absence in today’s fast-fashion world means younger generations may not recognize its name, yet the charm of Gunne Sax lives on in thrift stores and vintage boutiques.
Caché: A Casual Glamour Icon
The name Caché may ring a bell for those who were teenagers or young adults in the ’90s and early 2000s. Founded in Miami in 1976, Caché initially specialized in formalwear before expanding into trendy casualwear. Known for its glitzy and bold styles, Caché became a go-to for glamorous dresses and stylish outfits.
Despite its popularity, the brand filed for bankruptcy in 2015, closing its retail stores. Today, most younger shoppers wouldn’t recognize Caché, but its influence remains in the form of online resale listings and nostalgic memories for those who remember its iconic looks.
Henri Bendel: A Century-Old Legacy
Founded over a century ago, Henri Bendel was a luxury brand offering high-quality accessories, handbags, and more. This brand held a special place in the hearts of fashion enthusiasts and New Yorkers alike. Unfortunately, after 123 years, the brand closed its doors in 2019, marking the end of an era. While some may still recognize the brand’s iconic brown-and-white striped bags, Henri Bendel is quickly becoming a distant memory for newer generations.
Modern Adaptations of Vintage Accessories
While some fashion trends are gone for good, others make their way back into the mainstream, albeit with a modern twist. Many younger shoppers are now rediscovering vintage pieces, either for the nostalgia they evoke or the uniqueness they offer in a world of mass-produced fashion. Vintage fashion is not just about reviving the old; it’s about blending classic styles with contemporary aesthetics to create something fresh and personal.
For instance, though few people still rely on high heel pads daily, similar innovations are finding their way into today’s footwear. Modern in-soles and gel pads offer extra comfort for a wide range of shoes, from athletic sneakers to casual flats. Foot comfort remains a priority, but options are now more diverse and adapted to the needs of today’s lifestyle.
Footwear Through the Ages: The Evolution of Women’s Shoes
Footwear has a rich history, dating back thousands of years. The earliest known shoes, dating around 3500 BC, were woven sandals crafted from reeds or leather. These early shoes served a practical purpose, protecting feet from rough terrain in warmer climates. As civilizations progressed, so did shoe designs. In ancient Egypt, intricate footwear made of papyrus leaves and leather was a symbol of social status.
In medieval Europe, women began to adopt heels, which initially provided stability in horseback riding. Over time, heels became a status symbol, with aristocrats and royals favoring them. Women’s footwear continued to evolve, and by the 20th century, high heels became a staple in Western fashion.
Today, women’s shoes span a vast array of styles, from functional flats and sneakers to elaborate high heels for special occasions. While the high heel pad may not be as necessary in our current footwear culture, the need for comfort and support remains constant.
Some Vintage Fashion Never Goes Out of Style
Even though high heel pads aren’t as common today, some vintage fashion staples continue to enjoy enduring popularity. Vintage handbags, classic dresses, and antique jewelry are highly sought-after items in today’s secondhand markets. These pieces offer not only style but also a sense of connection to a previous era.
Meanwhile, new in-sole technologies, custom-designed sneakers, and adaptable shoe designs are redefining comfort for modern women. Yet, the humble high heel pad remains a symbol of a time when women embraced both style and practicality—an era when small innovations made a big difference.
Conclusion: Remembering the High Heel Pad and Embracing Vintage Fashion
While high heel pads may seem like a relic of the past, their impact on fashion comfort remains relevant. Younger generations may not understand their importance, but for countless women, they provided essential relief during long days in heels. In a similar vein, forgotten brands like Gunne Sax, Caché, and Henri Bendel once played a vital role in shaping fashion history.
Today, as we embrace both modern and vintage styles, let’s not forget the little accessories that made fashion more comfortable and accessible. From high heel pads to iconic vintage brands, these items remind us that fashion is not only about trends—it’s about the stories, memories, and innovations that continue to influence our lives. Whether you’re wearing a pair of modern gel in-soles or sporting a vintage dress, you’re part of a fashion legacy that blends the best of the past with the comfort of the present.
