Dorothy’s ruby slippers are one of the most famous parts of “The Wizard of Oz.” But did you know that there are also many stories and myths about these shiny red shoes? In this article, we’ll look at the real facts and clear up some of the misunderstandings. We will learn about how the slippers were made, the different pairs that exist, and why they are so special. Read on, and let’s find out the true story behind Dorothy’s magical ruby slippers.
Myth 1: The Ruby Slippers Were Always Ruby
Many people believe that Dorothy’s slippers were always ruby red. But that is not actually true. In the original book by L. Frank Baum titled “The Wonderful World of Oz,” Dorothy’s slippers were silver. But why do we think of them as ruby slippers?
It changed when the book was adapted into the popular 1939 movie. The filmmakers decided to make the slippers ruby red instead of silver. One big reason for this was Technicolor. It was a new technology that made colors in movies look bright and vivid. The filmmakers thought that ruby slippers would stand out more against the yellow brick road and the colorful Land of Oz.
The costume designer, Adrian, made the change. For him, red is more visually exciting for the audience. His decision paid off, as the ruby slippers became one of the most memorable parts of the movie.
While Dorothy’s slippers were originally silver based on the book, the ruby red version most of us know came from the creative minds behind the 1939 film. It shows that adaptations change details to make a story more magical on screen.
Myth 2: Only One Pair of Ruby Slippers Exist
Most of you might think that there’s only one pair of ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz.” That is also not true. There are several pairs that were made for the movie. They were used for different scenes, stunts, and as backups in case of damage.
It was common practice to make multiple versions of important props and costumes during the production of the 1939 film. At least five known pairs of the ruby slippers were created. Each had slight difference in design. These include the shape of the bow and the placement of the sequins.
Some of these pairs have become highly valuable collectibles. One of them is displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. Another pair is part of a private collection exhibited in different museums and exhibitions. Some pairs have been sold at auctions. Their prices reached millions of dollars. This means that the idea that only one pair of ruby slippers exists is a myth debunked by collectors, historians, and the evidence of multiple pairs appearing in different locations.
Myth 3: The Ruby Slippers are Made of Rubies
Another common myth about Dorothy’s ruby slippers is that they are made of actual rubies. However, this is not true. The real materials used to make the slippers are simpler and more practical for filmmaking.
Sequins were used to create the sparkling red effect. Around 2,300 sequins covered the shoes. These were more affordable and easier to work with compared to gemstones. They were sewn onto a standard pair of pumps dyed red.
To create the dazzling effect that viewers see on screen, each sequin was specifically chosen to catch and reflect light. The bows on the slippers were also made using red glass beads and rhinestones. These add to the overall sparkle without the need for precious gems.
The use of sequins was practical as they were lightweight and could be sewn easily into the fabric. Real rubies would have been too heavy, expensive, and difficult to attach to the shoes. Therefore, the myth that the slippers are made of rubies likely came from their name and brilliant appearance. But knowing the truth doesn’t diminish their magic.
Myth 4: Judy Garland Kept the Ruby Slippers
Many fans of The Wizard of Oz retain a false memory of how the film ends. It seems there are legions of people who remember that once Dorothy awakens back in Kansas and exclaims, “There’s no place like home” to Auntie Em, the camera pans down to show the Ruby Slippers are still on her feet or under her bed. But no such shot was ever considered, scripted, or filmed for The Wizard of Oz.
In real life, one persistent myth about “The Wizard of Oz” is that Judy Garland kept a pair of the ruby slippers after filming. This is a charming story, but it’s also not true. After the movie was completed, the slippers were stored with other costumes and props at MGM Studios. The slippers remained the property of the studio before they were dispersed in various ways.
Interestingly, the slippers have been involved in several legal battles and ownership disputes over the years. For example, in the 1970s, one pair was stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in Minnesota and remained missing for over a decade before being recovered by the FBI.
The myth that Judy Garland kept the slippers likely arose from the sentimental value attached to both the actress and the character she portrayed. Fans wanted to believe that Garland had a personal memento from the film. However, the reality is that the slippers had a different journey, one that involved collectors, museums, and even theft.
While Judy Garland did not keep a pair of the ruby slippers, the true story of these iconic shoes is still fascinating. They have become treasured pieces of film history. They have been cherished by collectors and fans alike, and their legacy continues to shine brightly.
The Cultural Impact of the Ruby Slippers
Here are some of the ways Dorothy’s ruby slippers impacted the culture of many people:
- Symbol of Hope and Home: The ruby slippers symbolize the idea that “there’s no place like home.” They resonate with the audiences’ feelings of safety and belonging. Dorothy’s journey in “The Wizard of Oz” also reflects a universal quest for identity and self-discovery. This makes the slippers an ending symbol of personal growth and resilience.
- Iconic Movie Memorabilia: The ruby slippers are among the most recognizable pieces of movie memorabilia. It is treasured by collectors and fans worldwide. In fact, auctions of the slippers have garnered significant media attention and high prices.
- Appearances in Popular Culture: The slippers have been referenced and parodied in numerous TV shows, films, and advertisements, solidifying their place in pop culture. They have appeared in episodes of shows like “The Simpsons” and “Family Guy” and in films such as “The Wiz” and “Oz the Great and Powerful.”
- Influence on Fashion and Design: The design and allure of the ruby slippers have inspired fashion designers and artists. This led to different reinterpretations of shoes, clothing, and accessories. High-end fashion brands and designers have created collections and pieces inspired by the slippers’ iconic look.
- Emblem of Hollywood’s Golden Age: The slippers represent the glamour and creativity of Hollywood’s Golden Age. It symbolizes the era’s technological advancements and storytelling magic. They are also often used in retrospectives and documentaries about classic cinema. This highlights their significance in film history.
Conclusion
Dorothy’s ruby slippers continue to enchant and inspire a lot of people from their origins in the 1939 film to their enduring cultural impact. These make them a symbol of hope, home, and magic that has captivated audiences for decades. By debunking myths and uncovering the true story behind the iconic slippers, we gain a deeper understanding for their place in movie history and their lasting legacy. We hope this article helped you learn more about Dorothy’s ruby slippers.