What Size Are The Ruby Slippers

The shimmering ruby slippers, a potent symbol of hope and home, are arguably the most iconic shoes in cinematic history. Their dazzling presence in "The Wizard of Oz" has captivated audiences for generations, sparking endless questions about their design, creation, and, of course, their size. While the film offers a visual feast of these glittering shoes, pinpointing their exact dimensions has become a fascinating pursuit, shrouded in a mix of movie magic, historical context, and dedicated research.

Unveiling the Mystery: Size and Construction

The ruby slippers weren't just a prop; they were meticulously crafted pieces of art, custom-made for Judy Garland, who played Dorothy Gale. However, the story of their size is not as straightforward as one might think. Here's what we know:

Multiple Pairs: The studio, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), created multiple pairs of the ruby slippers for various purposes during filming. This included different versions for close-ups, dancing sequences, and stunt work.
Varying Sizes: While the popular narrative suggests that the "main" pair of ruby slippers was size 5B, the reality is more nuanced. The sizes of the slippers varied slightly across the different pairs produced. Some were size 5B, while others were reportedly size 5 or even 4.5.
Judy Garland's Shoe Size: Judy Garland's shoe size is often cited as being between 4.5 and 5. Given the demands of filming, it makes sense that multiple pairs were created to ensure comfort and functionality.
Construction Materials: The slippers weren't made of rubies, of course. The base shoes were plain white canvas slippers, likely purchased from a department store. These were then covered in layers of sequins and beads to create the iconic ruby red effect. A felt base was glued to the soles to muffle the sound of Garland's steps on the Yellow Brick Road. The bows were made of silk ribbon, adorned with glass beads.

The Journey of the Surviving Slippers

Out of all the pairs created, only a few have survived the test of time, each with its own unique story and varying levels of preservation. Understanding the journey of these surviving pairs provides additional insight into their size and significance.

The "Witch's Shoes": This pair, considered one of the most well-preserved, is often referred to as the "Witch's Shoes" because they were thought to have been intended for the Wicked Witch of the West. However, research suggests they were indeed used for Dorothy. This pair is reportedly size 5B and is currently housed in the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.
The "Traveling Pair": Another notable pair, known as the "Traveling Pair," was used for close-up shots and promotional purposes. This pair was once owned by actress Debbie Reynolds and later sold at auction for a staggering amount. The size of this pair is also believed to be 5B.
The Stolen Slippers: In 2005, one of the pairs was stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. These slippers were missing for 13 years before being recovered in 2018. The size of the stolen slippers has been reported as both 5 and 5B.
Other Surviving Pairs: Other less documented pairs are rumored to exist in private collections. The exact size and condition of these slippers remain largely unknown.

Delving Deeper: The Construction Process

To truly appreciate the mystery surrounding the size of the ruby slippers, it's essential to understand the meticulous construction process that transformed ordinary canvas shoes into objects of cinematic legend.

Base Shoe Selection: The foundation of the ruby slippers was a simple, unassuming pair of white canvas slippers. These were chosen for their comfort, flexibility, and ease of modification. The exact brand of these base shoes remains a mystery, but they were likely a common, readily available style of the time.
Dyeing and Coloring: The canvas slippers were initially dyed a light shade of red to provide a base color for the subsequent layers of sequins. This ensured that any gaps between the sequins would not reveal the original white canvas.
Sequining: The real magic began with the application of thousands of sequins. Each sequin was painstakingly hand-sewn onto the canvas, creating a dense and shimmering surface. Different sizes and shades of red sequins were used to add depth and dimension to the slippers.
Beading: In addition to sequins, glass beads were incorporated into the design, particularly on the bows. These beads added extra sparkle and texture to the slippers, catching the light and enhancing their overall visual appeal.
Bow Creation: The bows were crafted from silk ribbon and carefully attached to the front of the slippers. These bows were also adorned with sequins and beads, further contributing to the slippers' dazzling appearance.
Sole Modification: To minimize the sound of Dorothy's footsteps on the Yellow Brick Road, a layer of felt was glued to the soles of the slippers. This ensured that the audience would not be distracted by the sound of the shoes clicking against the pavement.

The Science Behind the Sparkle

The captivating allure of the ruby slippers stems not only from their intricate design but also from the science behind their sparkle. Several factors contribute to the way these shoes interact with light, creating a mesmerizing visual effect:

Reflection: The sequins and beads on the slippers are highly reflective, bouncing light in multiple directions. This creates a shimmering effect that draws the eye and makes the slippers appear to sparkle.
Refraction: The glass beads on the bows refract light, splitting it into its component colors. This creates a rainbow-like effect that adds to the slippers' overall visual appeal.
Color: The vibrant red color of the sequins and beads is highly saturated, meaning that it reflects a large amount of red light. This makes the slippers appear particularly bright and eye-catching.
Movement: As Dorothy walks and dances in the slippers, the sequins and beads move and shimmer, creating a dynamic visual effect. This movement adds to the slippers' overall sense of magic and wonder.

Why the Size Matters

The quest to determine the exact size of the ruby slippers is more than just a matter of curiosity; it speaks to the enduring legacy of "The Wizard of Oz" and the emotional connection that audiences have with these iconic shoes. The slippers represent:

Childhood Dreams: For many, the ruby slippers evoke a sense of childhood wonder and the power of imagination. They symbolize the hope and possibility that anything is possible.
The Power of Home: The slippers are a potent symbol of home and the importance of family and friends. Dorothy's journey to Oz ultimately leads her back to Kansas, where she realizes that "there's no place like home."
The Magic of Cinema: The ruby slippers are a testament to the magic of cinema and the ability of movies to transport us to other worlds. They represent the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of classic films.
Pop Culture Icon: The ruby slippers have transcended their role as mere props to become a pop culture icon. They have been referenced in countless films, television shows, and advertisements, solidifying their place in the collective consciousness.

The Enduring Appeal

The ruby slippers continue to fascinate and inspire because they represent something more than just a pair of shoes. They are a symbol of hope, home, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Their journey from a humble canvas slipper to a cinematic icon is a testament to the creativity and artistry of the filmmakers who brought "The Wizard of Oz" to life. And while the exact size of the ruby slippers may remain a subject of debate, their impact on popular culture is undeniable. They remind us that even the most ordinary objects can be transformed into something extraordinary with a little bit of imagination and a lot of heart.

The Ruby Slippers in Pop Culture

The ruby slippers have become deeply embedded in popular culture, influencing fashion, art, and entertainment for decades. Here are just a few examples of their widespread impact:

Fashion: Designers have drawn inspiration from the ruby slippers, creating shoes and accessories that incorporate the iconic red color and shimmering sequins.
Art: Artists have used the ruby slippers as a subject in paintings, sculptures, and other works of art, exploring their symbolism and cultural significance.
Entertainment: The ruby slippers have been referenced in numerous films, television shows, and musicals, often as a symbol of hope, magic, or the power of dreams.
Advertising: Advertisers have used the image of the ruby slippers to sell everything from shoes and clothing to cars and travel packages, capitalizing on their iconic status.

Why We Still Care

Decades after "The Wizard of Oz" first premiered, the ruby slippers continue to capture our imaginations. Here are a few reasons why we still care about these magical shoes:

Nostalgia: For many, the ruby slippers evoke a sense of nostalgia for childhood and simpler times. They remind us of the first time we saw "The Wizard of Oz" and the sense of wonder and excitement that it inspired.
Escapism: The ruby slippers offer a form of escapism, allowing us to escape from the everyday world and imagine ourselves in a world of magic and adventure.
Inspiration: The ruby slippers inspire us to believe in ourselves and to follow our dreams. They remind us that anything is possible if we have the courage to believe.
Timelessness: "The Wizard of Oz" is a timeless classic, and the ruby slippers are an integral part of its enduring appeal. They represent the power of storytelling and the ability of movies to connect with audiences across generations.

The pursuit of the precise size of the ruby slippers isn't just about measurements; it's about preserving a piece of cinematic history and understanding the cultural impact of these iconic shoes. Whether they are a size 4.5, 5, or 5B, their magic continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, reminding us that there's no place like home and that the power to create our own destiny lies within us.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About the Ruby Slippers

How many pairs of ruby slippers were made? MGM created multiple pairs of ruby slippers for "The Wizard of Oz," estimated to be around 7-10 pairs.
What are the ruby slippers made of? The ruby slippers are made of canvas shoes covered in sequins and glass beads.
Where are the ruby slippers now? Several pairs of ruby slippers are known to exist. One pair is at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, another was recovered after being stolen from the Judy Garland Museum, and others are in private collections.
How much are the ruby slippers worth? The ruby slippers are incredibly valuable. One pair was sold at auction for several million dollars.
Did Judy Garland keep a pair of ruby slippers? It is believed that Judy Garland did not keep a pair of the original ruby slippers.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Ruby Slippers

The quest to determine the exact size of the ruby slippers may seem like a trivial pursuit, but it highlights the enduring legacy of "The Wizard of Oz" and the powerful connection that audiences have with these iconic shoes. While the exact size may vary slightly from pair to pair, their symbolism remains constant. They represent hope, home, and the transformative power of imagination. The ruby slippers have become more than just a prop; they are a cultural touchstone, reminding us that there's no place like home and that the magic of cinema can transport us to other worlds. Their sparkle continues to captivate audiences of all ages, ensuring their place in history as one of the most beloved and recognizable symbols of American cinema. The mystery surrounding their size only adds to their allure, inviting us to continue exploring the magic and wonder of "The Wizard of Oz" for generations to come.