Condition:
These 1980s Rene Caovilla pumps are in very good vintage condition. Small surface marks, including a light scratch on one side, are not noticeable when worn. There is gentle wear to the gold metallic insole, while the leather soles remain structurally sound, clean, and ready to wear.
Key Features:
- Colour & Finish: Two-tone ochre leather paired with burgundy patent leather
- Design:
- Pointed toe with sculptural dome button detailing along the front
- Elegant mid-height stiletto heel, approx. 9 cm
- Gold metallic leather insole that catches the light as you move
- Brand: Rene Caovilla, Venezia
- Size Marked: 40½
- Made in: Italy
Background of the Brand/Style/Era:
Rene Caovilla is a prestigious Venetian luxury shoemaker celebrated for couture-level craftsmanship and hand-finished detailing. Working in small artisanal batches, the house is closely associated with Italian evening elegance and red-carpet glamour. This pair, with its ornate insole label, metallic gold lining and confident two-tone colour blocking, reflects the bold yet refined spirit of late-1980s Italian maximalism. For fans of vintage Italian footwear, these 1980s Rene Caovilla pumps are both a collectible object and a beautifully wearable statement heel.
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 life 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:
- Measurements:
- Marked size: 40½
- Heel height: approx. 9 cm
- Fit Notes:
- Best suited to wearers who usually take an EU 40–40.5 in narrow to regular-width heels
- Please compare with a similar pair of heels you already own for the best fit
Please note: Estimated fit is for reference only. Customers should refer to the size information above and their own shoes to judge comfort.
Materials:
Upper: Feels like smooth leather and patent leather
Insole: Gold metallic leather
Sole: Leather
Care Instructions:
Do not wash. Do not tumble dry. Keep away from moisture. Use a specialist leather and patent cleaner. Store with shoe trees or tissue to help maintain shape.
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
Explore More
Want to see more from Doreen’s Wardrobe? Browse here or explore our vintage accessories.
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