Barbara Hulanicki and her husband John Fitz Simon set up Biba in 1963 as a mail order boutique. The success of their affordable, youthful designs enabled them to open a small shop in Abingdon Road in Kensington the following year. Until the closure of the 'Big Biba' department store, in Kensington High Street, in 1975, the label attracted glamorous pop stars, bohemian aristocrats and impoverished students alike. In contrast to the futuristic styles and space age brightness of some sixties clothing, Hulanicki’s designs were inspired by the past. Her romantic, decadent garments appealed to women swept up in the growing craze for vintage dresses.

These diamanté and satin evening sandals show a number of classic Biba influences. The overall design is inspired by 1930s Hollywood. The geometric striping on the platform reflects classic 1920s Art Deco patterning. The colour, a dark blue, is typical of Biba's moody colour choices.