A perfectionist who as a child crafted a pair of white shoes for his sister’s first holy communion because his parents couldn’t afford new footwear, Salvatore Ferragamo was ambitious from his earliest days. The young Italian shoemaker established in the years that followed what would one day become a fashion empire — the highly profitable multinational family-owned and -operated luxury brand today counts more than 600 stores in 96 countries around the world, and vintage Salvatore Ferragamo shoes, belts, handbags and other clothing and accessories are objects of desire for fashion lovers everywhere.
Salvatore Ferragamo sought an education in the art of shoemaking when he was eleven — he apprenticed with a local shoemaker and spent a short time in nearby Naples learning what he could at a shoe factory. He opened his first shop with a handful of workers the following year, and in 1914 — when he was still a teenager — Ferragamo emigrated to America, just as his siblings had before him, seeking new opportunities for work and to learn in the footwear trade.
After securing a job at the Plant Shoe Factory in Boston, Massachusetts, Ferragamo was uninspired by machine-made footwear. He moved across the country to Santa Barbara, California. Owing to a connection he made with a then-actor cousin, Ferragamo found work with the American Film Manufacturing Company. He made women’s shoes and provided durable cowboy boots for a film crew’s costuming department. Ferragamo’s reputation in the world of Hollywood cinema soon broadened, and he established a storefront in Mission Canyon where he made shoes by hand for the likes of actresses Gloria Swanson, Greta Garbo and Dolores del Río.
By the 1920s, film directors commissioned Ferragamo to produce shoes for a range of movies — the list of films eventually included The Ten Commandments, The Covered Wagon and The Thief of Baghdad. When he felt comfortable enough with the English language, Ferragamo also enrolled in anatomy courses at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles in order to better understand motion and the demands that we place on our footwear.
By the late 1920s, Ferragamo sought to expand production of his shoes and returned to Italy. He hired scores of apprentices to work in a factory in Florence, where Ferragamo carefully melded the principles of handcraftsmanship with all that he learned about America’s shoe factories. He filed patents — hundreds over the years — on the steel shank arch and many other unique aspects of his shoe design, and when economic and political influences during the 1930s forced Ferragamo to substitute pressed cork for steel to support the arch, the wedge heel was born. Other creative materials he integrated into his forward-looking creations were hemp, felt, nylon fishing line, fish skin and cellophane twisted with silk.
In the late 1940s, the brand’s first storefront opened in Manhattan, and today Salvatore Ferragamo is known worldwide and is synonymous with a wealth of iconic footwear such as Viva ballet flats, Vara Bow pumps, Gancini loafers and lots more. Ferragamo’s son, Ferruccio, was appointed CEO in 1984. Under his leadership, Ferruccio diversified and expanded the fashion business further, getting into sunglasses, fragrance, watches and made-to-measure men’s shoes. Ferruccio was succeeded by his brother, Leonardo Ferragamo, and British designer Maximilian Davis is now creative director of the brand.
Find vintage Salvatore Ferragamo shoes, clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
Timeless Salvatore Ferragamo Multi Strand Glass Pearl Gold Clasp Choker Necklace
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Sheffield, GB
A Superb vintage Salvatore Ferragamo necklace, (Circa 1990) crafted with three strings of Glass faux Pearls and with a Gold plated Salvatore Ferragamo House emblem twist clasp. MADE...
Gilt Metal
Salvatore Ferragamo Gilt Metal Shoe Themed Charm Bracelet c 1990s
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in University City, MO
Salvatore Ferragamo Gilt metal shoe themed charm bracelet c 1990s The stylish bracelet is adorned with a collection of large scale dangling charms Two of...
Salvatore Ferragamo Yellow and Brown Wood Enameled Cuff Bracelet Bangle
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning Salvatore Ferragamo, Italy, bracelet bangle features a massive, geometric, chunky cuff shape, built on carved wood with enamel in pale butter yellow and bittersweet tof...
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Italian Dangling Shoe Clip on Statement Earrings c 1980s
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in University City, MO
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Rare Italian clip-on dangling shoe earrings c 1980s The unique statement clip on earrings are designed with dangling gold plated shoes; suspended from a resin ena...
Gilt Metal
2000s Iconic Gilt Metal Gancini Scarf Ring by Salvatore Ferragamo
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Aci Castello, IT
This authentic vintage Salvatore Ferragamo scarf ring is a true staple of 2000s luxury. Crafted from lustrous gilt metal, this piece features the legendary Gancini logo, instantly r...
Gilt Metal
Salvatore Ferragamo Red Acrylic Lucite Bracelet Bangle with Faux-Wood Texture
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning Salvatore Ferragamo, Italy bracelet features a chunky Lucite or acrylic bangle in luminous red color, ornate with faux-wood textured print and the iconic two-shoe horse...
Salvatore Ferragamo 18K Rose Gold Green Gemstone Cufflinks
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Roma, IT
An elegant pair of Salvatore Ferragamo cufflinks, crafted in warm 18K rose gold and distinguished by a refined combination of polished gold surfaces and vivid green cabochon gemstone...
Carnelian, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Salvatore Ferragamo 18K White Gold Diamond Pavè Cufflinks
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Roma, IT
An elegant pair of Salvatore Ferragamo cufflinks, crafted in 18K white gold and distinguished by a refined pavé of round brilliant-cut diamonds totaling approximately 0.82 carats. E...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold Lucky Charm Bracelet
By Alex Jona
Located in Lugano, TI
Alex Jona design collection, hand crafted in Italy, 18 karat yellow gold luck charm bracelet. Alex Jona jewels stand out, not only for their special design ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold Heart Charm Chain Bracelet
By Alex Jona
Located in Lugano, TI
Alex Jona design collection, hand crafted in Italy, 18 karat yellow gold heart charm chain bracelet. Alex Jona jewels stand out, not only for th...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Alex Jona 18 Karat Yellow Gold Dog Lover Pendent Charm Bracelet
By Alex Jona
Located in Lugano, TI
Alex Jona design collection, hand crafted in Italy, 18 karat yellow gold "Dog Lover" charm bracelet. Alex Jona jewels stand out, not only for their special design and for the excell...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$9,439
H 0.2 in W 0.31 in L 7.24 in
Victorian 18k Two-Toned Gold Bracelet by Hunt & Roskell, Circa 1865
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning, fine and impressive antique 18 karat two-toned gold bracelet retailed by Hunt & Rosell - boxed; part of our diverse antique jewelry collections. This stunning antique Victorian bracelet has been crafted in 18k yellow gold. The overlaid incurved shaped articulated, graduating links are flanked with a snake chain style border. Each incurved graduating link is embellished with impressive engraved scrolling stemmed leaf decoration, continuing retrospectively to applied leaf and ball motifs. The anterior surface of the bracelet is ornamented with an impressive broad rose gold lobed design, embellished with further engraved interlacing scrolling leaf designs. This two-toned gold bracelet terminates at either end with an array of snake style links, in addition to a semi-circular shaped push fit clasp, engraved with further leaf decoration. This exceptional antique bracelet features the additional benefit of a detachable safety chain, which secures to either end with a push fit catch; this fine feature indicates the high quality of the piece. The bracelet is fitted to the original stunning leatherette push fit presentation box with a velvet and satin lined interior, securing with three swivel catches. The interior of the box bears the renowned and important retailer's mark 'Hunt & Rosell, Lte Storr & Mortimer, Jewellers & Goldsmiths to the Queen and Royal Family, 156 New Bond Street'. This Victorian two-toned gold bracelet has been independently tested using state of the art technology (Niton XL2 Analyzer) and verified as 18k gold. This stunning antique Victorian gold bracelet...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Diamond Yellow Gold Bangle Bracelet
Located in Great Neck, NY
This simple but gorgeous bracelet is perfect for everywhere and everyone. It can be stacked with others or worn alone for a classic look. These 45 round VS2, G color diamonds totalin...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Ugo CORREANI ITALY Gold Gilt Massive Earrings New old Stock 1980s
By Ugo Correani
Located in Wallkill, NY
These are a large clip on earrings by Ugo Correani. New old stock, still in the package they came in, Measuring 3.30 long x 2.13 inches wide. Ugo Correani established own label in the 1970's; very closely collaborated with Giani Versace...
Gilt Metal
Bvlgari 18K Tricolor Gold B.Zero1 Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in London, GB
We Adore - Bvlgari 18K Tricolor Gold B.Zero1 Bracelet From the B.Zero1 collection is this Tri-colour bangle bracelet crafted from 18k yellow, white and rose gold. Featuring the sig...
Gold
$890
H 0.79 in W 0.79 in Dm 2.76 in
Auth. Hermès BRACELET - Clous En Trompe L oeil Bracelet - EGP - Multicolour New
By Hermès
Located in Ottawa, CA
Orders ship DDP No import duties or brokerage due at delivery. Clous En Trompe L oeil Bracelet - EGP - Multicolour Club - 70-20mm - NWOTS - 2601051859 Brand: Hermès Type/Model: Ena...
Enamel, Gold Plate
Genuine and Natural Red Spinel and Yellow Sapphire Faceted Beads Choker Necklace
Located in New York, NY
A Genuine & Natural Red Spinel and Yellow Sapphire Faceted Beads Choker Necklace, with the length of 17.75" and the beads ranging from 2.50MMto 4.50...
Yellow Sapphire, Spinel
Large Aquamarine Smooth Beads with Pearl Clasp, 14 Karat
Located in New York, NY
Two strands of genuine and large smooth Aquamarine Beads, one strand is 17" and the other is 20". The clasp has 4 pearls, Diamonds, and is in 14K Yellow Gold. The beads range from 8M...
Aquamarine, Pearl, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Opulent Freshwater Pearl Carved Coral Braided Necklace
Located in University City, MO
Opulent freshwater pearl carved coral braided necklace The elegant necklace is designed with twisted strands of oblong shaped freshwater pearls The necklace is embellished with a carved coral medallion with floral designs. The carved coral medallion can be worn on the side or the back of the neck The opulent pearl and coral necklace...
Coral, Freshwater Pearl
Victorian 18kt Bicolored Gold Hinged Bangle Bracelet, 1870s, UK
Located in Firenze, IT
The hollow, hinged bangle with handcrafted floral design; weighing approximately: 22,37 gram; Wide 1,1cm Size: 6,1cm.
18k Gold, Rose Gold, Gold
Sold
W 1.62 in Dm 2.52 in L 7.92 in
Salvatore Ferragamo Black Resin Bracelet Bangle with Chrome Logo in Box
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Atlanta, GA
This lovely Salvatore Ferragamo, Italy bracelet features a massive resin or acrylic bangle in true licorice black color, ornate with the iconic two-shoe horse company logo emblems in...
Base Metal
Salvatore Ferragamo Feroni GMT Two Tone Steel Silver Dial Quartz Watch SF4400119
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned Salvatore Ferragamo Feroni GMT Two Tone Champagne Dial Quartz Watch SF4400119. Minors Hairline Scratches on the Gold-Tone Bezel and Bracelet. Th...
Salvatore Ferragamo Pale Pink Resin Bracelet Bangle
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Atlanta, GA
Lovely Salvatore Ferragamo, Italy bracelet bangle. Geometric resin or acrylic bracelet, in powder pink color, ornate with two gilt metal shoe horse company logo emblems covered with ...
Gilt Metal
Salvatore Ferragamo gold tone decollete brooch
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Capri, IT
Salvatore Ferragamo gold tone decollete brooch
Salvatore Ferragamo Cuore Collection Red Wrist Watch
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Capri, IT
CUORE FERRAGAMO $ 2,395 Conceived to celebrate love, Cuore Ferragamo is the ideal gift to mark an anniversary or special occasion. Swiss Made.
Salvatore Ferragamo Cuore Black Wrist Watch
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Capri, IT
CUORE FERRAGAMO MODEL CODE 611122 651257 USA Retail Price $ 2,395 Conceived to celebrate love, Cuore Ferragamo is the ideal gift to mark an anniversary or special occasion. Swiss Made.
Salvatore Ferragamo Gold Logo Pearl Evening Stud Earrings
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Charlotte, NC
Salvatore Ferragamo Gold Logo Pearl Evening Stud Earrings Metal Gold tone Faux pearl Clip on closure Made in Italy Diameter 1"
Salvatore Ferragamo NEW & SOLD OUT Gold Filigree Cuff Bangle Bracelet in Box
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in Charlotte, NC
CURATOR'S NOTES SPECTACULAR limited time price reduction! Brass Gold tone Glass stones Made in Italy Width ~2" Circumference 6.7" Includes original Salvatore Ferragamo bo...
Salvatore Ferragamo Crystal Star Clip-On Earrings
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in New York, NY
Salvatore Ferragamo Crystal Star Earrings Made In: Italy Color: Goldtone and clear Materials: Crystals and metal Closure: Clip-on Date Codes/Stamp: Ferragamo Made In Italy Ov...
Crystal
Salvatore Ferragamo Burnt Red Resin Cuff with Logo
By Salvatore Ferragamo
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Salvatore Ferragamo Burnt Red Resin Cuff with Logo. This cuff is in excellent condition. Length- 8" Width- 2"