The Story of Shoes and How They Define Us
Rachelle Bergstein
I really did enjoy reading this book by Rochelle Bergstein. She took the readers on an exciting walking stroll thru the definitive history of shoes.
Her research is impeccable as she traces the “shoe biz” captivating stories of Ferragamo’s humble beginnings in the period before WWI. Shoes were created by hand whereas now they are mass produced by industrial footwear manufacturers.
In ancient times certain types of shoes designated status. Times haven’t changed according to Bergstein, although the styles and materials are now limitless. One can pay an arm and leg today for a divine pair of shoes designed by such illustrious names as Christian Laboutine, Jimmy Choo, or Manolo Blahnik, idol of the Sex & the City Clan.
Bergstein writes about which individuals and times influenced baby doll heels, ballet flats, Birkenstocks, etc., and effects of fashion vs function. Judy Garland, Lana Turner, Jennifer Lopaz, Lady Gaga, is among this group. Each one in their own fashion made a particular style or pair of shoes popular or objects of desire. High heels elicited an aura of sexuality, and boots signified a woman’s empowerment.
The average woman has over 50 pairs of shoes. We are modern day Imelda Marcos. Bergstein believes they define who we are or want to be. Many of us just want to be “comfortable in our own shoes.
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My email address is gdevoid@tds.net and I would like to be entered into the contest.
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