I created multiple pairs of replica ruby slippers at the request of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. The slippers were offered as an incentive prize for donors who contributed $7,000 to the campaign's Kickstarter, which was set up to raise the funds necessary to preserve an original pair of ruby slippers in the Smithsonian's collection.
Nearly every component on the shoes was custom made, from the sequins, to the Art Deco jewels and rhinestones on the bows. The base shoes and heels were even custom made to match the original shoes. The style slipper created was a compromise between a new and aged looking pair, hoping that it would have the most mass appeal to donors.
The first pair sent to the Smithsonian was used in publicity and featured on a number of US news stations, as well as featured in a 20 minute live Facebook broadcast put on by the BBC News, and a live online Q & A chat with Smithsonain staff members.
Warner Bros. licensed these limited edition replicas, making these the only licensed replicas aside from the limited pair made by Western Costume Co. in the late 1980's and early 1990's.
