Did you know that the iconic Ruby Slippers from "The Wizard of Oz" are one of the most valuable pieces of movie memorabilia? These sparkling shoes, worn by Judy Garland as Dorothy, have fascinated fans for decades. But what makes them so special? For starters, there were actually multiple pairs created for the film, each with its own unique details. Ever wondered how many pairs still exist today? Some are in museums, while others have been lost or stolen. And did you know that the original slippers weren't even supposed to be red? They were changed to ruby to take advantage of Technicolor. Intrigued yet? Let's dive into 35 amazing facts about these legendary shoes!
Key Takeaways:
- The iconic ruby slippers from "The Wizard of Oz" were originally silver in the book but changed to ruby red for the film, making them one of the most valuable and beloved pieces of movie memorabilia.
- The ruby slippers have inspired fashion, art, and even real-life replicas, with their cultural impact and mystique continuing to captivate fans and collectors worldwide.
The Iconic Ruby Slippers
The Wizard of Oz is a timeless classic, and the ruby slippers worn by Dorothy have become one of the most iconic pieces of movie memorabilia. Here are some fascinating facts about these famous shoes.
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The ruby slippers were originally silver in L. Frank Baum's book, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." They were changed to ruby red for the film to take advantage of Technicolor.
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There were actually multiple pairs of ruby slippers made for the movie. Estimates suggest there were between five and ten pairs.
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The shoes were made by the MGM Studios costume department. They used about 2,300 sequins per shoe to create the dazzling effect.
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Judy Garland, who played Dorothy, wore a size 5B shoe. However, some of the slippers made for the film were slightly different sizes.
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One pair of the slippers was stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, in 2005. They were recovered by the FBI in 2018.
The Making of the Ruby Slippers
Creating such an iconic piece of movie history involved a lot of craftsmanship and creativity. Here are some details about how the ruby slippers were made.
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The base of the slippers was a plain pair of shoes from the Innes Shoe Company, which was then covered in fabric and sequins.
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The bows on the slippers were made from stiffened red silk and covered with red glass beads.
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Each sequin on the slippers was hand-sewn, a painstaking process that took many hours.
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The soles of the slippers were painted red to match the rest of the shoe, although this detail is not visible in the film.
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The shoes were designed by MGM's chief costume designer, Gilbert Adrian, who was known for his elaborate and glamorous designs.
The Cultural Impact of the Ruby Slippers
The ruby slippers have left a lasting impression on popular culture and have been referenced and parodied in numerous ways. Here are some examples.
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The slippers have appeared in various forms of media, including TV shows like "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy."
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They were featured in the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History, where they are one of the most popular exhibits.
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The phrase "There's no place like home," spoken by Dorothy while wearing the slippers, has become a widely recognized quote.
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The ruby slippers have inspired fashion designers and have been the subject of various art pieces and exhibitions.
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In 1989, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the film, Warner Bros. commissioned jeweler Harry Winston to create a real pair of ruby slippers, using 4,600 rubies.
The Value of the Ruby Slippers
The ruby slippers are not just iconic; they are also incredibly valuable. Here are some facts about their worth and sales.
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One pair of the slippers was sold at auction in 2000 for $666,000, making them one of the most expensive pieces of movie memorabilia ever.
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Another pair was sold in 2011 for $2 million to a private collector.
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The slippers' value has increased over time, partly due to their rarity and cultural significance.
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The pair recovered by the FBI in 2018 was valued at around $3 million.
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The slippers are insured for millions of dollars, reflecting their importance and value.
The Mystique of the Ruby Slippers
The ruby slippers have a certain mystique and allure that continues to captivate people. Here are some intriguing facts about their legacy.
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The slippers have been the subject of various myths and legends, including rumors of hidden messages and secret designs.
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Some believe that the slippers have magical properties, much like in the film, although this is purely fictional.
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The slippers have inspired countless replicas and imitations, from Halloween costumes to high-end fashion pieces.
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They have been featured in numerous documentaries and books about the making of "The Wizard of Oz."
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The slippers have a dedicated fan base, with collectors and enthusiasts seeking out any information or memorabilia related to them.
The Preservation of the Ruby Slippers
Preserving such an iconic piece of movie history is no small task. Here are some facts about how the ruby slippers are maintained and protected.
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The slippers are kept in controlled environments to prevent damage from light, humidity, and temperature changes.
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They are regularly inspected and cleaned by conservation experts to ensure they remain in good condition.
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The Smithsonian Institution has a dedicated team responsible for the care and preservation of their pair of slippers.
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The slippers are often loaned to other museums and exhibitions, but only under strict conditions to ensure their safety.
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Special display cases are used to protect the slippers from dust, fingerprints, and other potential hazards.
The Legacy of the Ruby Slippers
The legacy of the ruby slippers continues to grow, as new generations discover "The Wizard of Oz" and its iconic footwear. Here are some final facts about their enduring legacy.
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The slippers have been the inspiration for various charity events and fundraisers, including auctions and exhibitions.
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They have been referenced in numerous academic studies and papers, exploring their cultural and historical significance.
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The slippers have a dedicated section on the official "Wizard of Oz" website, featuring detailed information and images.
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They have been the subject of various fan theories and speculations, adding to their mystique and allure.
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The ruby slippers remain one of the most recognizable and beloved pieces of movie memorabilia, a testament to their enduring appeal and significance.
The Magic Lives On
The Wizard of Oz Ruby Slippers have fascinated fans for decades. These iconic shoes, worn by Judy Garland, are more than just movie props. They symbolize hope, magic, and the power of believing in oneself. From their creation to the various pairs that exist today, each slipper has its own unique story. Whether displayed in museums or auctioned for millions, they continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Knowing these facts adds a layer of appreciation for the craftsmanship and history behind the slippers. Next time you watch Dorothy click her heels, remember the rich legacy those sparkling shoes carry. The magic of the Ruby Slippers isn’t just in their appearance but in the dreams and memories they inspire. So, keep believing in your own magic, just like Dorothy did.
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