poulaine

A poulaine, also known as a crackow or cow-mouth shoe, was a type of shoe popular in the 15th century. It was characterized by its extremely long, pointed toe, which could extend several inches beyond the wearer's foot. The length of the toe was often indicative of social status, with the aristocracy sporting the longest and most elaborate examples.

The construction of poulaines varied. They were typically made of leather, but could also be fashioned from velvet or silk for more luxurious versions. The soles were often thin, and the shoes were designed to be soft and flexible to accommodate the lengthy toe. Some poulaines were even stuffed with moss or other materials to maintain their shape and rigidity.

The extreme length of the poulaine's toe presented practical challenges. It could be difficult to walk in, and in some cases, the points were tied up to the knee to prevent tripping. The style was also subject to fashion decrees and criticism. In England, King Henry IV issued an ordinance in 1404 limiting the length of the toe to six inches. Despite such attempts to curb the trend, poulaines remained fashionable for a significant period before eventually falling out of vogue.