Judy Garland’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz are arguably among the most famous shoes ever made, and their journey through history is as remarkable as the film itself.
The sequined ruby slippers were pivotal to the plot of the 1939 musical film based on L. Frank Baum’s fantasy novel. They are a symbol of magic and homecoming, playing a crucial role in Dorothy Gale’s adventures in the Land of Oz. But beyond their narrative significance, these shoes have also achieved an extraordinary status in the real world.
In 1988, the slippers made headlines when a pair was sold at Christie’s auction house in New York for $165,000 (then £90,000), making them the most expensive shoes from a film ever sold at auction. This record was shattered in 2000 when the same pair sold again at Christie’s for an astounding $666,000 (£450,920), breaking their own record.
The pair that broke records twice was previously owned by Roberta Bauman, a Tennessee woman who won them after securing second place in a contest. The journey of these slippers from a contest prize to a record-breaking auction item underscores their significant cultural and monetary value.
The exact number of ruby slippers made for the production of The Wizard of Oz remains a mystery. It is believed that at least six or seven pairs were created, but not all of them can be accounted for today. This uncertainty only adds to the allure and intrigue surrounding these iconic shoes.
Judy Garland (10 June 1922 – 22 June 1969), who was just 16 years old at the time, wore the slippers as she portrayed Dorothy Gale, the farm girl from Kansas swept away to the magical Land of Oz. In the film, Dorothy’s house lands on and kills the Wicked Witch of the East, leading to the transfer of the ruby slippers to Dorothy’s feet by Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. The Wicked Witch of the West then plots to kill Dorothy to retrieve the shoes, which ultimately help Dorothy return home by clicking her heels and chanting, “There’s no place like home.”
Interestingly, the slippers were originally silver in Baum’s 1900 novel. The filmmakers changed them to ruby red to take full advantage of the new Technicolor film process, making them stand out vividly on screen. This creative decision helped cement the slippers’ place in cinematic history.
The credit for the creation of the ruby slippers goes to costume designer Gilbert Adrian. His design not only captured the magical essence needed for the film but also created a lasting legacy that continues to enchant audiences and collectors alike.
The ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz are more than just a piece of movie memorabilia; they are a symbol of the golden age of Hollywood and the power of dreams. Their record-breaking sales and the mystery surrounding the number of pairs created add to their mystique. From their role in a classic film to their status as a highly coveted collector’s item, the ruby slippers continue to captivate and inspire, much like the story of Dorothy herself.
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