Shoes: An Illustrated History

Shoes: An Illustrated History is a revised and updated edition of a classic reference book that provides a comprehensive guide to footwear, from chopines to stilettos, Louis XIV to Louboutin. It explores the cultural significance of shoes and their evolution over time, featuring new content on environmental and sustainability issues, as well as coverage of diverse and contemporary designers. Lavishly illustrated with a dazzling array of shoes from all over the world, the book consolidates its position as the leading reference work on footwear.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Shoes have been an integral part of human history, serving both practical and cultural purposes. From the humble chopine to the elegant stiletto, shoes have evolved to reflect the changing times and fashion trends. In her book, "Shoes: An Illustrated History," author Rebecca Shawcross takes readers on a lively journey through the evolution of footwear, from ancient times to the present.

The book is beautifully illustrated with a wide range of shoes from different cultures and eras, providing a visual feast for the reader. Shawcross delves into the social and historical context of shoe-making and wearing, exploring how shoes have been used to express gender, social status, and cultural identity.

One of the most interesting aspects of the book is its exploration of the sexual morals and social power play associated with shoes. Throughout history, shoes have been used to signal a person's sexual availability, and they have played a role in shaping sexual behavior and attitudes. For example, in ancient Rome, women wore high-heeled shoes to emphasize their femininity and allure, while men wore sandals to show off their athletic prowess.

Shoes have also been used to express social power and status. In the Middle Ages, kings and queens wore elaborate shoes that were decorated with precious stones and metals, while commoners wore simpler shoes made from leather or woven materials. Today, celebrities and fashion icons are often seen wearing designer shoes that can cost thousands of dollars, further perpetuating the idea that shoes are a symbol of wealth and status.

Another fascinating aspect of the book is its coverage of the endless shifting of fashion trends. Shoes have always been a reflection of the latest styles and trends, and they have played a key role in shaping fashion history. From the flapper dresses of the 1920s to the bold prints and colors of the 1960s, shoes have been an essential part of the fashion landscape.

In addition to its historical and cultural content, "Shoes: An Illustrated History" also includes a new closing chapter that covers the latest developments in design and technology. The book discusses the influence of social media and celebrity endorsement on shoe trends, as well as the impact of sustainable and ethical fashion practices on the industry.

Overall, "Shoes: An Illustrated History" is a must-read for anyone interested in fashion, history, or the cultural significance of shoes. The book is beautifully illustrated, informative, and entertaining, and it provides a fascinating insight into the evolution of footwear and its role in shaping human society

Shoes have been an integral part of human history, serving both practical and cultural purposes. From the humble chopine to the elegant stiletto, shoes have evolved to reflect the changing times and fashion trends. In her book, "Shoes: An Illustrated History," author Rebecca Shawcross takes readers on a lively journey through the evolution of footwear, from ancient times to the present.

The book is beautifully illustrated with a wide range of shoes from different cultures and eras, providing a visual feast for the reader. Shawcross delves into the social and historical context of shoe-making and wearing, exploring how shoes have been used to express gender, social status, and cultural identity.

One of the most interesting aspects of the book is its exploration of the sexual morals and social power play associated with shoes. Throughout history, shoes have been used to signal a person's sexual availability, and they have played a role in shaping sexual behavior and attitudes. For example, in ancient Rome, women wore high-heeled shoes to emphasize their femininity and allure, while men wore sandals to show off their athletic prowess.

Shoes have also been used to express social power and status. In the Middle Ages, kings and queens wore elaborate shoes that were decorated with precious stones and metals, while commoners wore simpler shoes made from leather or woven materials. Today, celebrities and fashion icons are often seen wearing designer shoes that can cost thousands of dollars, further perpetuating the idea that shoes are a symbol of wealth and status.

Another fascinating aspect of the book is its coverage of the endless shifting of fashion trends. Shoes have always been a reflection of the latest styles and trends, and they have played a key role in shaping fashion history. From the flapper dresses of the 1920s to the bold prints and colors of the 1960s, shoes have been an essential part of the fashion landscape.

In addition to its historical and cultural content, "Shoes: An Illustrated History" also includes a new closing chapter that covers the latest developments in design and technology. The book discusses the influence of social media and celebrity endorsement on shoe trends, as well as the impact of sustainable and ethical fashion practices on the industry.

Overall, "Shoes: An Illustrated History" is a must-read for anyone interested in fashion, history, or the cultural significance of shoes. The book is beautifully illustrated, informative, and entertaining, and it provides a fascinating insight into the evolution of footwear and its role in shaping human

Weight: 1522g
Dimension: 259 x 259 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350266476
Edition number: 2 Revised edition