Founded in 1906, Cherry Blossom has been the nation’s favourite shoe care brand for 120 years, rising from humble beginnings in Edwardian London to becoming a household name and a globally recognised brand. We’ve been there through changing fashions, historic moments and everyday milestones.
For 120 years, Cherry Blossom has helped generations care for the shoes that carry them through life. As we continue our journey through the decades, we arrive in the 1970s, a decade of bold fashion, changing attitudes and footwear that was certainly not afraid to make a statement.
A Decade of Bold Style
The 1970s were all about self-expression. The colourful optimism of the Swinging Sixties evolved into a decade of individuality, with fashion influenced by everything from disco and glam rock to punk and the growing popularity of outdoor lifestyles.
Clothing became more relaxed and experimental, with flared trousers, bold prints, denim and suede becoming wardrobe staples. Naturally, footwear followed suit.
1970s Footwear: The Bolder, The Better
If there was one shoe that defined 1970s fashion, it was the platform. Popular with men and women alike, platform shoes and boots added height and drama, often featuring chunky soles, bold colours, and eye-catching designs. Knee-high and over-the-knee boots were another major trend, pairing perfectly with the decade's shorter skirts and dresses. Suede became particularly popular whilst earthy browns, tans and rust tones reflected the decade's love of natural colours.
For men, footwear became more relaxed and varied. Platform shoes, Chelsea boots, loafers and leather boots all found their place, moving away from the formal styles that had dominated previous decades. And then came punk. By the late 1970s, safety boots, chunky leather footwear and military-inspired styles became part of an entirely new fashion movement. Shoes were no longer simply completing an outfit; they were making a statement.
By Northampton Museum - https://www.flickr.com/photos/northampton_museum/4429221544/sizes/o/in/set-72157623610643070/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10979114
Looking After 1970s Footwear
With so many statement styles made from leather and suede, shoe care remained an important part of keeping footwear looking its best.
Regular cleaning helped remove dirt and marks, whilst polishing leather shoes and boots restored their shine and helped protect them from everyday wear. Looking after your favourite footwear also meant you could keep wearing those much-loved styles for longer – something that was particularly important when replacing shoes wasn't always cheap.
Cherry Blossom Through the Decade
As British footwear became more adventurous, Cherry Blossom continued helping households care for their everyday shoes and boots.
From polished leather school shoes and work footwear to the latest fashion boots, reliable shoe polish helped protect leather and keep footwear looking smart. Fashion may have been changing at speed, but the need for good shoe care remained timeless.
A Decade That Made Its Mark
The 1970s showed just how much personality a pair of shoes could have. Platforms, boots, loafers and punk-inspired styles all reflected a decade where individuality mattered more than ever. Today, 1970s footwear continues to inspire fashion. And while styles may come back around, one thing never changes: a great pair of shoes is always worth looking after.
