Studia Filologiczne UJK

Summary

The main purpose of the paper is to review the centuries-old phenomenon concerning the popularity of red shoes (women’s shoes in particular) in art, fashion, literature and film. We point out to their most typical connotations, such as sensuality, eroticism, the sensation of freedom, bravery and power. All these connotations, and many more, well rooted in Europe and in other parts of the world, have suddenly been subject to a transgression of meaning in certain European countries (Italy) and in South America. We owe it to the Mexican artist, Elina Chauvet, and her installation called Zapatos Rojos. The final part of the article provides predictions as to the future trends concerning the perception of the notion of red shoes in different European countries, taking into consideration the potential influence of Chauvet’s work on the long-lasting traditions and connotations.