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Women's Shoes, about 1860
These shoes, commonly called slippers in this period, were likely made to match a specific outfit. They may have been made to match a wedding gown. Flimsy fabric shoes such as this were very popular, but provided no support and quickly were soiled and damaged. They were purely decorative and worn by women who were expected to stay primarily indoors and not required to do any work.
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Women's Shoes, about 1875
These are interesting shoes; likely a transitional shoes style popular just after the Civil War. They are machine sewn, but retain the straight soles that fall from favor shortly after the war. These are inexpensive, sturdy women's shoes worn by the ordinary housekeeper.
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Satin Boots, about 1865
Congress gaiters is a term for boots with elastic at the ankles. This style of boots is comfortable and easy to pull on and off. They were a very popular style in the mid 19th century for both men and women. At the time these were made, elastic thread was only available in black. This is why you see the black speckling in the white fabric of the gores of these boots.