This version of the square toe is post WWII 40s (c. 1946-47) - a short lived trend and used most often on California Construction shoes - a method developed during WWII that allowed for shoes to be made in a factory setting by non-skilled makers. The upper straps and vamp were sewn to an insole which is then glued onto a midsole (usually made of cork with the edges covered with fabric which creates a platform or wedge shape to which an outersole is then glued. The styles are almost always open toed with sling backs because they are easier to sew, although the same construction is used on slippers. Joyce - a California shoemaker may not have invented the method, but they certaintly used it a lot.
