Style Guide: Ghillies

An open top laced style of ancient origin. Originally probably made from a single piece of leather which was drawn over the top of the foot and laced in place. This prevented their loss in bogs or on difficult terrain. Now associated with Scottish traditional dress and highland dancing. They may also be brogued which is another technique useful when travelling over wet ground.

Reproduction of iron age shoes

Scottish dancing shoes

Ladies gold leather boots c1918

Stylised ladies ghillies with peeptoe c1940

Ankle boots by Rayne 2016

Grey suede heels c2015