Shoe Innovations

More about the book

An illustrated survey of iconic shoe designs from the Edwardian Period to today, this enthralling exploration covers 60 significant styles from the 20th and 21st centuries, including the Edwardian Louis heel and the 1940s wedge, as well as the extreme architectural designs of Pierre Hardy for Balenciaga. Fashion expert Caroline Cox traces the evolution of high-fashion shoes, placing each design within its social, historical, and cultural contexts while discussing their popularity and occasional revivals. The book reviews the pioneering work of key designers and highlights successful celebrity-brand associations, featuring figures like Kate Moss and Vivienne Westwood, alongside the stars of "Sex and the City" and Manolo Blahnik. Evocative photographs of style icons wearing the shoes complement informative descriptions, while detail-revealing close-ups and original designer sketches provide insight into the creative process. Each design includes a mini photographic catalog of current style variations. This inspirational guide not only chronicles the history of stylish shoes but also celebrates them as an art form, making it a must-have for shoe lovers everywhere.