How the D’orsay Shoe Got its Name

You’ve most likely come across d’orsay shoes even if you don’t know it – the term d’orsay refers to a French shoe style where the vamp and the sides of the shoe are cut away to expose the décolleté and arch of the foot:

Drawing of vintage d’orsay shoes

This shoe style evolved sometime in the 19th Century, the time when high heels on shoes was just starting to become a trend.

Just like today, they also had their own revered style icons and celebrities back then. One of them was a Frenchman by the name of Count D’Orsay, Alfred Guillaume Gabriel, who was the son of one of Napoleon’s generals. He was handsome, charming, and was adored by both men and women. His own abode served as “a resort for the fashionable literary and artistic society of London” who were all naturally drawn to the skilled painter, sculptor, and artist.  Although never explicitly stated, it was most likely from him that the term d’orsay was derived. After all, who better to name an exquisite shoe style after than a man of fashion and the arts.

D’orsay shoes have always been present in fashion since they were introduced in the 19th Century. They have changed many times and this is how we know them now:

Guess Shoes Carrie 7 d’orsay pumps

Paris Hilton Crave Heel peeptoe d’orsay shoes

Jessica Simpson Leticce Heel platform wedge d’orsays

The d’orsay is a very delicate shoe style, but if worn correctly, they can make the wearer look very slim and elegant.

They are also quite versatile: you wear the Guess Shoes Carrie 7 d’orsay pumps to work, the Paris Hilton Crave Heel peeptoe d’orsay shoes for a night out, and the Jessica Simpson Leticce Heel platform wedge d’orsays for a fun date.

Purchase these d’orsays at Heels.