Okay, so I’ve been getting really into vintage fashion lately, and I had this idea to try and make my own 70’s style marshmallow shoes. You know, those chunky, platform shoes that were all the rage back then? I figured it would be a fun project, and I wanted to share my whole process with you guys.
First, I did some digging online to get a better feel for what these shoes really looked like. I searched through tons of pictures of vintage shoes from the 70s. Brands like Candies and Dr. Scholl’s kept popping up, so I paid extra attention to those. I also noticed a lot of platform heels and cowboy boots in the mix. It seemed like the 70s were all about bold and flashy footwear.
Materials Gathering
After I had a good idea of the look I was going for, I started gathering my materials. I found some thick foam for the soles, since that’s what gives the shoes their signature marshmallow look. Then I got some suede fabric for the upper part, because it seemed like a popular choice back in the day. I also picked up some buckles, studs, and other embellishments to give them that extra 70s flair.
Crafting Process
The crafting process was definitely a learning experience. I started by cutting out the foam for the soles. Let me tell you, that was trickier than I expected! Getting the shape just right took some trial and error. Once I had the soles shaped, I moved on to the upper part. I carefully cut and sewed the suede fabric, trying to mimic the styles I had seen in my research. This part was pretty time-consuming, but also kind of therapeutic in a way.
- Cut foam for the soles (the hardest part!).
- Shape the soles (lots of trial and error).
- Cut and sew the suede for the uppers.
- Attach the uppers to the soles (super tricky!).
- Add buckles, studs, and other decorations.
Putting It All Together
Attaching the uppers to the soles was probably the most challenging part. I used a strong adhesive, but it still felt a bit precarious. I definitely had a few moments where I thought the whole thing might fall apart. But I persisted, and eventually, I managed to get them securely attached. Finally, it was time to add the decorations. I went a bit wild with the studs and buckles, trying to capture that over-the-top 70s vibe.
In the end, I was pretty happy with how my DIY 70s marshmallow shoes turned out. They’re definitely not perfect, but they have that chunky, retro look I was going for. Plus, they’re surprisingly comfortable! I’ve worn them out a few times, and they always get a lot of attention. It’s been a fun way to express my love for vintage fashion and try my hand at a unique DIY project. If you’re into vintage style, I definitely recommend giving it a try!
I have to say, this whole experience has given me a new appreciation for the craftsmanship that went into those vintage shoes. It’s not as easy as it looks! But it’s definitely a rewarding experience to create something with your own hands. Hope my little journey into 70’s footwear inspires you to try something new and crafty!
