In the shoe family, Chinese-style embroidered shoes, which have been deemed as a perfect combination of the shoe culture and the art of embroidery, are a 100-percent handicraft creation by Chinese people. Deeply rooted in Chinese culture, they are reputed as "Chinese shoes".
In ancient China, ever since the matrilineal society was replaced by a patrilineal one, the social division of labor has been based on men ploughing and women weaving; the tradition of embroidering shoes has been passed down from one generation to another by Chinese women. Aesthetic conceptions, cultural traditions, ethics and morals, as well as the fashion of different dynasties, have all been well expressed by the needle and thread with which subtle and interesting changes have been incorporated.
But when and where did embroidered shoes first appear? Works that have been passed down from ancient times fail to provide us with explicit evidence. The popular tale of the "Jin Shoes" may, however, give us some inspiration.
Colorful silky threads are used to embroider elaborate patterns on the shoe from heel to toe, and from the sole to the shoe padding.
The themes for shoe embroidery originate from daily life -- such as folk culture and folk customs -- and nature, including flowers and grass, birds and beasts, and theatrical figures.
The seemingly traditional embroidered shoes fall into different types: trendy, indoor and traditional. The most attractive aspect of embroidered shoes is their soft texture and comfort. As a result, embroidered shoes are back in vogue, especially among young people. The perfect combination of the fashion and tradition produce a truly unique product.
Many young people believe embroidered shoes add a touch of elegance to the modern woman without looking too conservative. And more than 20 ethnic groups still wear embroidered shoes as part of their characteristic dress. Embroidered shoes have become more than footwear these days -- they are one of the nation's cultural treasures.
