Chopines are platform shoes that were worn by women in the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries.
Made with a very tall wooden platform, these shoes protected the dress from mud and street dust.
They became very popular in Venice and were mostly worn by noblewomen and courtesans.
The size of the chopines was made according to the status of the wearer. If the platform was made very tall, that meant that the wearer is one of high social status.
The women’s feet were secured to the platform with straps made of leather or silk.
To keep the balance when walking the streets, ladies needed the support of their maids or husbands.
