Can you believe that the holidays are here once again? What a year it has been! Those of us at American Duchess HQ are feeling particularly appreciative of our fabulous historical footwear community, and we’re looking forward to kicking up our heels, letting loose, and munching some festive snacks at holiday shindigs. So, what better to suit this mood than a little bit of historical holiday party outfit inspiration, with shoe suggestions to match?

Now before we begin, we must mention that our Gold Rush collection is in stock and ready to ship now! This collection consists of three beloved American Duchess shoes, now in shimmering shades of gold. Gibson, Edith, and Jessie in gold are all perfect for holiday festivities. Plus, Edith and Jessie are both available in B and D width!

This gorgeous 1912 evening ensemble by Bernard would pair beautifully with our Laurel Shoes in dusty lilac for an Edwardian-themed New Year’s Eve party, don’t you think?



Stewart & Company evening dress c. 1925, from the collection at the Met Museum.
If you’ve been invited to a 1920s-themed New Year’s Eve party (an ever-popular theme) and you really feel like going for gold, match a 1920s-inspired gold sequin confection like the Stewart & Co. dress above with our new Gibsons in antique gold, or even Tango in antique gold!



Film star Esther Ralston, c. 1925, from the collection at the Shoe Icons museum.
If you really want to turn heads, pair a drop-waisted 1920s silhouette dress (like this quintessential 1920s pink chiffon gown) with a pair of Marigold Pumps. Nothing says ‘celebration’ like rhinestones!

Marigold Rhinestone Pumps in magenta

Okay, now here’s an idea: Aesthetic dress New Year’s Eve party. Everyone comes wearing a comfy tea gown (like @statusthimble) or something similar- cozy yet elegant. Plus, you can pair them with Flora Boots.



If you’re looking to put together an Edwardian-inspired history-bounding ensemble for something like a holiday party or peruse at a Christmas market, take some tips from Tally and try pairing your favorite ankle-length skirt with a fluffy petticoat and sweater. Add some American Duchess boots and you’re set! Tally is wearing classic Paris in black in this photo, but you could also wear Edith in gold or even Camille for a wintery touch of velvet.



How about a vintage, 1940s or 1950s inspired outfit? We love this ensemble that Jessica @jessicaoutofthecloset wore when modelling our collaboration collection! The voluminous skirt and velvet caplet are very merry indeed. Jessica is wearing Jessie Pumps in black in the photo, but wouldn’t our new Jessie Pumps in gold make this outfit perfect for a holiday shindig?



If you’re thinking of putting together a historically inspired, touched-by-fantasy-esque ensemble, look no further than lacemaker Elena Kanagy-Loux for some iconic style inspo. Ultra-feminine Adelaide Latchet Shoes from our collaboration collection with Elena are perfect for adding holiday cheer to your outfit- especially when paired with our custom Pearl Buckles.



Here’s one last bit of 1920s New Year’s Eve inspiration- this 1923 pochoir print shows four finely dressed friends ready to ring in 1924 with a party. It’s too bad they couldn’t shop at American Duchess, because we have a veritable rainbow of footwear that would pair beautifully with these ensembles!

Elsie Pumps in seafoam would pair perfectly with that floaty seafoam gown!


Daisy in pink or black– the embroidery really makes these shoes special for a party.


Plus Lilith, of course- a classic 1920s party shoe.

From all of us at American Duchess to you, Happy New Year! If you end up donning your AD shoes at a holiday party, won’t you share it with us over on Instagram?
