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.
As we celebrate our 120th anniversary, we’re looking back at the decades that shaped both Britain and Cherry Blossom. As we continue our journey through the decades, we arrive at the 1920s: a decade remembered for jazz, glamour and newfound freedom. It was a time when fashion became bolder, personalities shone brighter, and shoes stepped firmly into the spotlight.
A Decade of Optimism and Opportunity
After the hardships and uncertainty of the First World War, the 1920s brought a renewed sense of energy and excitement. Society was changing rapidly. Cities buzzed with life, music filled dance halls, and people embraced new ideas, new technologies and new ways of expressing themselves.
For women especially, the decade marked a turning point. Greater independence brought changing lifestyles, and fashion evolved to match. Hemlines rose, silhouettes became looser, and clothing was designed with movement in mind. It was a decade that celebrated confidence, individuality and modern living.
When Shoes Became the Star of the Outfit
As skirts became shorter, shoes were no longer hidden beneath layers of fabric. For the first time, shoes became a true fashion statement.
Women’s footwear transformed dramatically throughout the decade. Elegant T-bar shoes, Mary Janes and court shoes became must-have styles, designed to complement the era’s iconic flapper dresses. Medium-height heels offered comfort for long evenings spent dancing, while rounded and almond-shaped toes created a softer, more refined silhouette.
Decorative details flourished: metallic finishes, intricate cut-outs, buckles and contrasting colours turned footwear into a focal point of an outfit, rather than a practical necessity. Whether stepping onto a dance floor or strolling through town, shoes became a way to showcase personality and style.
Men’s footwear embraced the same spirit of sophistication. Oxfords, brogues and stylish, two-tone leather shoes grew in popularity, taking the classic shape and adding a modern twist.
Cherry Blossom in the Age of Glamour
As fashion entered a bold new era, Cherry Blossom continued to grow alongside it.
The 1920s were an exciting decade for the brand. In 1923, Cherry Blossom introduced a five-day working week and a staff pension scheme: progressive ideas that reflected the family values at the heart of the business long before employee wellbeing became common practice.
Innovation remained central to the Cherry Blossom story. In 1924, we introduced our ‘fish-plate’ metal opener, making tins easier to access and use. A first for the packaging industry, the design would go on to inspire the iconic ‘press to open’ tins we recognise today.
As demand for Cherry Blossom continued to grow, so did its ambitions. By 1929, we joined forces with Nugget Polish Company Ltd, helping transform the trusted British shoe polish brand into a global name. Factories and warehouses began appearing overseas, carrying Cherry Blossom far beyond Britain’s shores.
Style Changes, Care Endures
The Roaring Twenties showed the world that fashion could be daring, expressive and full of personality. Shoes became more than a practical necessity; they became an extension of personal style and confidence.
Some things never go out of fashion, and at Cherry Blossom, care is one of them.
