Condition:
These 1970s Fratelli Rossetti pumps are in fair vintage condition with visible signs of wear. There are surface scratches and patina throughout, water staining at the toe area (likely from rain), and some slight lifting along the sole edge. The stacked heels show scuffing and creasing. Structurally they remain wearable and have been priced accordingly.
Key Features:
- Design: Leather loafer-style upper with twin tassels on the vamp
- Heel: Sculpted stacked mid-heel, approx. 8 cm
- Silhouette: Almond-toe shape with elongated vamp for a refined line
- Construction: Leather insole and leather outsole
- Size Marked: 40½, made in Italy
- Branding: Early A. & G. Rossetti / Fratelli Rossetti script logo to insole
Background of the Brand/Fabric/Style/Era:
A. & G. Rossetti was the early branding of Fratelli Rossetti, the Milanese luxury shoemaker founded in 1953 in Parabiago, Milan. The house is known for artisanal construction, hand-finished leather and elegant loafer designs. These 1970s Fratelli Rossetti pumps date to the late 1970s–early 1980s, identified by the script logo, stacked cone heel and loafer-inspired tassel front. The style reflects a transitional moment in Italian footwear, blending structured, subtly masculine lines with a polished feminine heel — a hallmark of high-end shoes from this era.
Provenance – Doreen Willis Bailey:
This pair comes from the wardrobe of Doreen Willis Bailey, a Canadian-born TWA hostess in the 1940s–50s who later worked with the American government promoting international travel in the UK. Known for her cosmopolitan lifestyle and impeccable taste, she met and served many notable figures including JFK. Now celebrating her 100th birthday, Doreen remains a living link to a century of fashion, travel and cultural elegance — her collection offers a rare glimpse into the wardrobe of a truly remarkable woman.
Size Information:
- Labelled Size: 40½
- Modern Sizing Equivalent (approx.):
- UK: Women’s 7–7.5
- US: Women’s 9.5–10
- EU: Women’s 40–41
- Heel Height: Approx. 8 cm
Please note: Size conversions are estimates only. Customers should consider their usual size in vintage Italian heels and the pointed shape when assessing fit.
Materials:
Upper: Leather
Lining: Leather
Outsole: Leather
Heel: Stacked leather construction
Care Instructions:
Store with shoe trees if possible. Avoid water exposure. Apply leather conditioner to maintain suppleness. A professional cobbler is recommended for any sole edge reglue or further restoration. Spot-clean only; do not machine wash.
Visit Us or Shop Online
Order online with worldwide delivery, or visit us in-store at Gong Nong Bing Vintage,
68 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0BB, to try on and collect your items (£1 admin fee applies).
UK delivery: £4 on orders under £100, free over £100.
International delivery: Calculated at checkout.
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Want to see more from Doreen’s Wardrobe? Browse here or explore our vintage accessories.
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