Friday, December 2, 2011

Best in Shoe

“Before you criticize someone, you should walk 
mile in their shoes. That way when you criticize 
them, you are a mile away from them and you 
have their shoes.”—Jack Handy




What’s it like to be in the shoes of the famous? LIFE.com provides a glimpse into celebrity soles, with photographer Craig Cutler’s gallery of footwear worn by the noteworthy and notorious, ranging from 18th-century popes to present-day pop stars.

Left, Robert Frank: Red-and-Yellow Brogues, circa 1974–1975
Visionary genius Robert Frank changed the lexicon of photography and captured all levels of society with The Americans, published in 1958. Nearly 20 years later, Frank accidentally left these two-tone lace-ups behind at the Visual Studies Workshop in Rochester, N.Y.

Right, Madonna: Concert Shoes, circa 1992–1994
Beaded appliqué stars and a constellation of rhinestones add sparkle to Madonna’s satiny platforms from the Girlie Show World Tour. Notice the subtle contrast detail on the ankle strap that helps to reduce buckle-wear and stretching. Shimmer, shine and safety!

See more Shoes of the Very Famous.