It took me 100 Hours to Make 1920s Oxford Shoes

[@Noel.Chmielowiec]

Most people: I need new shoes for my trip, I better buy them. Nicole: I need new shoes for my trip, so I did research and I'm making them, meanwhile, enjoy little history lesson. You are honestly so talented on many levels. Those shoes look amazing. I wonder, aren't leather heels slippery?

[@madaffi2434]

Leather heels are slippery. Some dancers have their shoes (ball and heel, or just one) sueded so that we can slide and turn more easily.

[@Noel.Chmielowiec]

@@madaffi2434 Thank you for the answer! So now I know that I have to avoid them, I'm too clumsy for that thing :)

[@carolilseanne2175]

People would - on buying new leather soled footwear would often scratch/score the heels and sole to prevent slipping

[@carolilseanne2175]

That is a stunning skill you have there Nicole! I love those 'Walking Shoes' 🤗

[@wakeywakeyvegetables6133]

I used to ballroom dance with shoes that had suede soles and regularly needed to wire brush them to roughen up the soles when the suede got too smooth and slidey to keep my grip on the floor :)

[@Fireflyhaven]

I really hope you get a chance to show us after using your walking shoes for the trip how well they held up. I'm especially curious about how the heel holds up and your comfort level along the way. Also go you for leveling up!!

[@jennifertalwar6099]

I second that!!

[@joshuaharper372]

I hope after all that work they hold up very well.

[@naowright9308]

Me third!🙋‍♀️

[@jennifertalwar6099]

@@naowright9308 😆

[@staciamartin923]

Me too.

[@zack4president]

HEAPS of respect for tackling this with hand punches and a commercial sewing machine.

[@draig2614]

I have come to the realization that I will never make a pair of shoes. I will, however, spend 35 minutes watching you spend 100 hours making your shoes 💕

[@twobluestripes]

Shoes were one thing that I never thought I could make until I watched Nicole! But since I am into wearing barefoot shoes and always have preferred to wear real leather, making simple, elegant leather flats in the various styles I want seems achievable. The key for me to ever try it will be to first make a last (or lasts) that will get me a shoe in the shape I want, but perfectly molding to my foot! And THAT seems achievable now that I am a woodworker!

[@robinmichel9048]

Nicole you are amazing. The level of dedication and knowledge you have to complete these projects is astounding. 💕

[@dianavoermans]

You ought to have a nice stamp for the inlay sole with your name in gold! You can be so proud of your work, it is wonderful!

[@lwoods507]

My goodness, what a staggering amount of work, well done you! The Oxford look nice and sturdy, which will definitely be a bonus if you are heading to Scotland this autumn (it's a wee bit wet and windy at present)

[@karens.5515]

Nicole, it is so enlightening to watch you craft shoes as cobblers have done through the centuries. These shoes are gorgeous! Go, enjoy the fruits of your labor!

[@paulinemegson8519]

Just fyi, a “cobbler” is a shoe repairer. A shoemaker, is not a cobbler.

[@lillyh3447]

@@paulinemegson8519 interesting, I didn't know this! Thanks for sharing with us ☺️

[@susanforrest4056]

Definition of cobbler 1 : a mender or maker of shoes and often of other leather goods. From Merriam-Webster

[@beckygoodchild1362]

^ If anyone is interested, I believe the word used for a shoe maker is a cordwainer :- )

[@m.maclellan7147]

@@beckygoodchild1362 "cordwainer" ?! Off on an internet rabbit hole ! That is too interesting a word to leave unexplored !

[@PolyvoreThea]

Oh my goodness this is so fascinating!! The gleam of the green leather! The evil genius point to the toes! The elegance of the arch! EPIC!!!

[@twelvethousandths1698]

100 hours! That's actually quite impressive! A testament to your skill!

[@theprinceofbrazil]

Honestly. I'm looking for a recreation of 1920's oxford shoes. You go, woman. I'm happy you were able to make them, no matter how hard it was.

[@michellebyrom6551]

The shoes are a delight. I suspect you'll still be wearing them when your 80. Seriously, you know exactly how to take care of them and do ongoing repairs as the heels and soles wear down. I hope they're as comfortable as they look.

[@JoannaLouise200]

I am in awe of your craftmanship skills, determination, precision and patience! That was a marathon amount of work, and what an elegant and beautiful result!

[@sparkybish]

I really love watching your shoemaking videos because you do it by hand, and my ancestor was a shoemaker. I feel like I get to know him when you make shoes.

[@jsrmusic1]

I NEED THESE OXFORD WALKING SHOES!!! 😊 Such a remarkable and beautiful job of making these dark green shoes! A work of art.

[@ilahjarvis]

I know I shouldn't be surprised that Nicole made her own shoes for this trip, but my mind is still blown. She didn't have do go this far, but she did.

[@tracynail4432]

Not one, but two pairs 😭

[@susanneberry236]

These are the most beautiful pair of shoes that I've ever seen you make and I was quite emotional while watching you throughout this video. Nicole, you have strong hands, have been given a gift, and you're using your talent at an exceptionally level. You've brought an appreciation of a craft which is dwindling away.

[@It_swill]

It is amazing to see such beautiful historical examples of bygone American Shoemaking. Allen Edmonds and Alden are essentially the only men's shoemakers still made in USA, standing relatively strong, among other smaller brands. The extreme details and fine finishing of shoes in the early and middle 20th century, my favorite being the *Spade Sole*, are not even seen in most bespoke shoemaking today! Few western artisans just don't do super fine work like the Japanese do now. You've done fantastic work! ❤

[@christinafidance340]

I was at around 26:00-ish when it suddenly hit me, “Holy crap! She still has a whole other shoe to make!” 😂 Wow! That is A LOT of work!

[@arinarayne]

I’m doing my first ever hand sewing project - my first ever seeing project from scratch. The levels of admiration I have for you are immense and I am so grateful that you too feel overwhelmed and share this because it makes me feel more able to do it. Well done ☺️

[@abirhussein9781]

You have outdone yourself. Those Oxfords are perfection😍 Your shoe making videos are my treat 😋

[@jenniferlynn3537]

Oh WOW Nicole - you must be just so SO proud of your work on this project! I’m in awe at how consistently meticulous your work is - and marvel at your patience! I’m especially impressed at your fortitude as you power through these complex leather / mixed media projects, as I’m one who’d need to periodically step away so as not to become frustrated over the time such work entails. I just want you to know that while I doubt I’ll ever craft a pair of shoes, you continue to inspire me to exercise due diligence and persevere in my own varied projects. Thank you for sharing your labors! 🌷💝🌷

[@trishblakely3476]

Simply stunning. I hope you’ve been able to treat yourself to some massage therapy for your hands, arms, and shoulders! I never knew shoe making was so physical. Thank you for sharing this process with us.

[@halleneyens9856]

These are stunning! Thank you for inviting us along to watch the process. I also want you to know that you are my 4-year old daughter's favorite youtuber. Anytime I'm watching a video (on any topic) she'll come over and say, "Can we watch a shoe video?"

[@tammiewilson5185]

Your dedication to this capsule wardrobe is blowing my mind! I appreciate and respect your skills: sewing, cobbling, filming. You rock!

[@MsSSnow]

I love your channel. I love that you teach us about the historical reverence to what you are describing. I love the styles of the turn of the century. I feel drawn to it. I love queen ann houses, drawn to those too. My great grandmother was 20 in 1920. She was there when women got the vote in 1918. Something about this era really draws me to it. Even the music. Sometimes especially the music. But the clothing and styles. I have thought about learning how to bring back those styles. I don't mean flapper dresses .... tho those were cute and all. I mean the general styles of the time including and especially the shoes.

[@arithesimsfan]

Holy my. This makes me really appreciate all the work that every single person in history has done.

[@VyvienneEaux]

You are incredible!!! Is there anything you aren’t amazing at?! Really phenomenal job.

[@Edhys]

Wow, what an incredible insight into how shoes are made. Seeing all the steps makes you realise how much we take the availability of shoes for granted these days.

[@Kaalokalawaia]

These are beautiful shoes. The part where you were stacking the heel was insane though.. holy cow.. so much work. Congratulations lady.

[@jenniferharris1280]

Oh, Nicole, those are exquisite! I love the subtle green sheen to them, the wicked green laces, and the clocked stockings. You are insane in the very best of ways!

[@tburnsmatheny]

I loved my oxfords I found at a charity sale and wore them for years. They had rounder tips and wider which fit me better. They felt good and I wish they would make them again.

[@lindapassos]

You making this shoes brought me sweet memories of my childhood, wish I had learned with my grand-grandad how to make shoes, but was too young for it. Thanks Nicole 😍

[@reniekittelhinnenberg8593]

I had to watch this 2 times. There was so much information about the art of shoe-making I could not absorb it all in the go. To say you have a talent for working with leather would be an understatement. I know from experience that the art of leather working in any capacity is harder than most would think. Both pairs you made are stunningly beautiful and so very different. Congratulations on a job well done.

[@vernaharris181]

I remember all the older ladies wearing these when I was a small child. Honestly, they were so comfortable when we played dress up using them for high heels. Same style and probably from the 1920s because the arch and heels looked more sturdy than the ones from the 1900’s.

[@emmyw6587]

You uploaded this at the perfect time! I’m working on 3D modeling a pair of oxfords for a video game and even though I’m going for more of a 40s/50s style this is perfect reference! Love your videos on shoe construction!

[@kilgirlietrout]

These shoes are incredible. Your workmanship never fails to impress me.

[@laurineserveau2540]

the fact that you make and create your own shoes is so crazily facinating for me and omg i'm here for it !!!!!!!

[@ChriaraCass]

I just ❤ the darkest green colour

[@DawnOldham]

Those shoes look like $300+ if you bought them in the store! You’re so talented and patient! Your wardrobe will be so authentic and beautiful. You’ll add so much to the event with all the time you have put in ahead of time.

[@KittenBrute]

Lol more like upwards of $600!

[@jennylawson1980]

You are amazing ❤ your shoes are incredible. I absolutely love watching you create and teach. Ty for all you do ❤

[@buddhabro.9130]

Nicole, those are so awesome. You got me feeling all 1920s so I said hello to Miss Phryne Fisher to scope out another one of her Murder Mysteries. I can see Miss Fisher flying to America just to wear a pair of your adorable Oxfords! 😉💜👢

[@elizabethdavis1696]

Please do an outfit of the day video while on the cruise.

[@NicoleRudolph]

That’s the plan! The final video will be all the outfits and events

[@elizabethdavis1696]

Thank you

[@laurahi3468]

I just LOVE your shoe making videos, it really is like stepping into a whole other world of craftsmanship. You are such an incredible artist!! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and skills!!

[@kimberlykristin2507]

Wow, I can't imagine the joy you must feel stepping into these lovelies, knowing how much thought and care went into every stitch and step. They're extraordinary!

[@Inlandexile]

Exquisite - as always! And the realization toward the end of the video that you have to do this TWICE?! Amazing 👏

[@purplealice]

THe green shoelaces make it very easy to notice that the leather is green.

[@elizabethsaltmarsh8306]

A few months ago, KZbin started recommending videos of people making Oxfords to me, and I'm wondering if your research process was part of why? I'm curious if other channel viewers saw the same recommendations. A lot of the techniques the modern makers use showed up in this video (such as the plastic covers). It's super fascinating to have watched this process without any sense of why it was being done (since I watched with the sound off to fall asleep), and now to have your explanation.

[@sumtin2say2yah91]

Creativity like this deserves all the follows and so much applause. 👏👏👏👏👏

[@lyndasmith593]

Phenomenal !!!! My hands just ache from the way I was making fists and working right along with you without actually realizing it. You are obviously very gifted... Really enjoyed this video thank you

[@BethAge95]

I'm just in awe about the level of skill and dedication that went into those! Amazing!

[@TheLballou]

Wow! Thank you so very much. I know that shoe making is a complex process, but have never seen it done. The finished product is just lovely. Two additional things. First, I have a 1950's singer 66 which would sew through the leather beautifully! If you are going to hand make another pair, it might be worth the investment. Secondly, I hope that they are comfortable! After all of that work, you want to be able to wear them! As others have said, you are so talented. I would add that you are a natural teacher! ❤

[@rabbitlovesraven]

is this where I tell my husband that if he wan'ts to get into leatherworking he needs to make me a pair of shoes?

[@SewlockHolmes]

Not sure if I've ever said this before but you're pure magic. I'm constantly in awe of the gorgeous shoes you make!! What patience and whimsy you have!

[@FelisTerras]

They look spectacular! Truly a labour of love. What talent and dedication; you are truly amazing and inspiring.

[@joseph_soseph9611]

The welt is also used because it simply makes the shoe objectively better. Glued shoes can, for the most part, not be resolved, whereas welted shoes can be resoled many times.

[@manicantsettleonausername6789]

These turned out so beautifully! I'd love to learn how to make historical shoes from a master!

[@nanettebromley8843]

They turned out lovely. I love them. And my fav colour too. I find shoe making fascinating. And watch avidly every time you do a shoe video. Not something I could do as I don't have the strength required in my hands any more. I have a pair of black and white heeled oxfords coming. Just trying to figure the timeline so I can create a suit to go with them.

[@cathypickard4615]

Nicole, I love these shoes! They're perfect for not only your 1920' s wardrobe, but also every day use! Congratulations! Cathy from Alabama 🥰🥰👍👍😘😘

[@cathypickard4615]

Nicole, how exciting! Ok, how do I claim this prize? I'm 61 and not exactly tech smart. Cathy from Alabama

[@makeda6530]

They’re gorgeous, bless your hands (100+ hours), you’ve done it again and they’re deceptively simple. I hope they serve you well!

[@merjagranlund1381]

Is there anything you can't craft? You're absolutely crazy good. You sew beautiful clothes and even make matching shoes.👏👏👏👏

[@marymary5494]

Fabulous work. I remember my grandmother who was born in 1900 wearing this style of shoe in the 1960’s and up into the 80’s. She was a farmers wife, the only time she got dressed up was to go to Sunday Mass and the occasional visit to her sister’s. I’m supposing they were still making these shoes in the 50/60’s.

[@allysonday5647]

"I want a pair of Oxfords...I will just make them...", says practically no one. Except, my dear, wonderfully creative and wholly exacting, you! It's a joy to watch you work. I have shopped a capsule wardrobe my whole life(thank you, Mother). I do so look forward to seeing your capsule wardrobe in it's entirety. Perhaps on the promenade? Or at the Captians table, n'est -ce pas? Bon Voyage!

[@M.Datura]

Cuban heeled oxfords are definitely a shoe softspot for me. They're incredibly beautiful, so comfortable to walk on, and honestly, I don't think I've ever seen anyone who they *didn't* look good on.

[@dismae7784]

This is an absolutely phenomenal feat. You have created a precious peak into an treasured historic trade, thank you!

[@mandylavida]

I would wear those every day. You must be so proud to have made these! Just gorgeous and so comfy looking.

[@chasewighton4064]

Wow, your craftsmanship and patience never ceases to amaze me, all your hard work, labour, and skills you've learned in all your previous experience really paid off here, even with all the new techniques and tools you needed to use. I *love* the colour of the leather, I'd love to see how they appear in natural light vs indoor lighting. I hope one day you'll make a new pair of shoes or boots that use a mix of leather and cloth for the uppers, I've always liked historical styles that and I think it would be neat to see some of the different fastening options

[@hopegoodwin2728]

Brogued oxfords are my absolute favorites, and these are simply divine!

[@JennaZouros]

Hi, Nicole I’m new to the channel and I’m loving your videos, I’m a history nut and you’ve gotten me into historical fashion. My favourite medieval period is the 15th century with the amazing Hennin, my favourite shape being the butterfly Hennin. I enjoyed your Maleficent historically accurate cosplay which you based on this time. I’d love to see a historically accurate Briar Rose peasant dress, all the ones I have seen so far are more modern and less from the time.

[@C4RYB34R]

Is there anything you can't do? Im vastly impressed with your skills.You are truly and artist. I bumped my daughter hip to your channel she loves it.

[@quixoticraven4242]

Those are absolutely gorgeous shoes! I really admire the amount of thought and work you put into your creations. I also love following along on your journey as you make them! Thanks for sharing and I hope your trip is lots of fun!

[@oliviascruggs7292]

I think this has been my favorite pair of shoes to watch you make. Your craftsmanship is incredible. Every shoe video I get closer and closer to tackling my fear and trying my hand at shoemaking. It’s so fascinating.

[@saraa3418]

I can't wait to see everything together! Also can't wait to hear about how much fun you all had once you're back!

[@OlichkaNesterova]

This video deserves more views

[@hemigod2]

I can tell by the way you move your fingers and the amount of control that you have over your voice that you are also a musician And if I am wrong then you should be. But then again the art is equally demanding. There is so much control in your voice that I wouldn’t even need to know the English language to be able to understand what you’re narrating about just from the way you manipulate the vibrations in your pitch and the feel being relayed. You are on a microscopic level with detail in your tones. Whether you are sculpting a pair of shoes right before my eyes, or in my imagination, fingering your way through a melody, with a stringed instrument, you are value is loved just the same You are beyond diamond

[@tonyawilliams9433]

Wow, Nicole....l'm blown away...you continue to impress me with your dedication to whatever project you are working on. These attractive shoes don't disappoint. I can't wait for your trip to see all your creations in action.(How would we go about finding more information about these kinds of trips?) Thanks for another excellent video!👍😀🍾🥂

[@michellecornum5856]

WOW! I love oxfords. I have dozens of them. I now have an entirely new respect for the oxford. My mother gave the only size seven in my house a pair of brown pointed toe oxfords. I (a size nine) am still considering cutting off my toes just so I can wear them. Beautiful shoes. WOW!

[@stitchbritt]

I have no desire to ever make shoes but i find your shoe videos fascinating! I had no idea how shoes were made or the work involved. I also really liked the video where you talked about how old shoes seem smaller because the materials they were made of were stretchier than we use today.

[@kathrynbassett1535]

Just so beautiful thanks again for showing that it is ok to take the time to make the item you are working on and also to work on something that challenges you. Well done again 😊

[@acchristianson]

Nicole, they are beautiful. Wonderful job. I am amazed that you have the knowledge, skill, and ability to make something so beautiful.

[@subliminalphish]

I envy you that you can make the exact style of show to your liking. I only wish I could either afford to have my custom boot made or afford all that it takes (plus time and training) to make my own. So to that I add. Another fine pair of shoes Nicole!!!

[@PKDoesStuff]

I'll just throw this out there - you can pick up "make your own moccasins" kits from craft stores (Michaels, Hobby Lobby, etc) for about $25. I did one and used them as house slippers/quick trip outside shoes for most of lockdown and it was a great intro to making footwear that required no extra tools or material. I've since made a few pairs without a kit using a pattern from Tandy Leather, and it's way less intimidating having done the kit first.

[@ixchelkali]

@@PKDoesStuff Can you customize the fit on the kit moccasins?

[@PKDoesStuff]

@@ixchelkali they come in different sizes (like small, medium, large, but with matching shoe sizes listed), so you find one closest to your size. Then I think there are some options for adjusting the sizing based on which sets of holes you use when assembling, but I may be misremembering. You can definitely adjust the fit some with the main lace that goes around the back of the foot and ties in front.

[@filelps1178]

if you're interested and have a decent budget- i high recommend the brand American Duchess!

[@sarahwatts7152]

All that beautiful work, tied off (literally) with those coordinating green laces: *chefs kiss

[@davecsaszarable]

The love and dedication is incredible. Thanks for letting us in

[@nikaleelawson9451]

I love the dark green leather for the outer. So unique! Amazing work as always 😊

[@shoemind]

I LOVE your skills and tenacity to make it work especially on the typical sewing machine and the curves!

[@ceanothus_bluemoon]

Amazing work. They look wonderful! The intricacy of the process, and so many steps to achieve this, is staggering and a joy to watch. I just wish I had such skills!

[@darthbee18]

Holy moly those pair of Oxford look INCREDIBLE!!! 🤯🤯🤯 Always in awe of your shoemaking skills - and this is such a level up too!!! Bravo to you for finishing this! ✨✨✨

[@litzgrahmann6468]

So beautiful, you've done it again! Perfection! I always wonder how long it takes to "break in" a custom pair of shoes like this?

[@loiskeeble3194]

They look really comfortable! Beautiful I just love them! 😁🙏💕

[@wrayoflighttube]

They turned out so beautiful! What craftsmanship. Stunning!😮❤

[@dendariadraenei9048]

I love watching your shoemaking videos -- it's a craft I know I'll never take up myself but it's so satisfying to see you accomplish so much from a few bits of leather, glue and sting. Concerning your sewing machine issues -- given that shoemaking is a regular part of your costume creation, it would probably be a reasonable business expense to get an additional machine that can sew through leather. Not many domestic machines can do that but most industrial machines can, and you can often pick them up second-hand. Some require an oil pan underneath but there are models that don't, like the Juki DDL-8700. It would be worthwhile talking to the people who service your Bernina and seeing if they have an industrial section or if they know of other dealers who supply industrial machines. I hope you can find one that suits you.

[@cecilyerker]

Thumbs up to boost this comment, let’s get an industrial leather sewing machine!

[@chrisjones3901]

Watched a vid of yours a few weeks ago.Your dedication to your craft is wonderful.Theres not many people that follow out a idea like you do.Excellant work.

[@debcarroll8192]

You will really be time travelling on this cruise! the oxfords are stunning. I love the green!

[@erinrabideau3691]

These are so so stunning!!! I love the green leather and the finish you got on the leather edges is so shiny and impressive!! 💚🖤

[@MyleneRichard]

It's always impressive to see you do a pair of shoes from scratch! Very inspiring! Do you have vintage luggage for your cruise? I mean, putting all that time making those clothes and accessories, your can't just bring them in a plastic hard shell suitcase!

[@tambriggs]

An exquisite pair of shoes! So elegant. It was a pleasure to watch. Thank you.

[@cathypickard4615]

I wish that I had these shoes in that exact color of green! I'm so in love with these! Great job! Cathy from Alabama 🥰🥰

[@rebeccacuthbertson1271]

Holy guacamole Nicole!! These are stunning! Worth that 100 hours 100%

[@sarahallegra6239]

These are so stunning!! Really incredible research and recreation. I’ll probably never try making shoes myself, but I love watching you make them! 😍

[@tmbentley1966]

I always find your shoe making videos fascinating. Quite a labor of love to make shoes.