Cinderella Story

Philip Treacy for Valentino Spring 2010

As a child I was mesmerized by the story of Cinderella, I loved her animal companions, her magical fairy god mother and definitely empathized with being mistreated by her sisters.  I would stay awake and wish for my very own fairy godmother, but with many fables it was not be.  The only mice we had were decapitated by the trap under the kitchen sink, the pumpkins in my mother’s garden were going one place and that was; in our hungry bellies and as for magic it could be conjured up in my own head.

As I got older I became resentful of the story. Why did she need Prince Charming to change her life? Why was she taking crap from her sisters and how can you wear glass slippers without them shattering and cutting your feet? I also hated that Cinderella had such delicate feet. My feet on the other hand are like snow shoes I’m almost certain it’s so “my people” don’t sink too far in the muddy rice paddies.

Anyways, as a shoe addict I’m beginning to see the truth in the story. Just like Santa Clause, it’s the message not the story?  The right pair of shoes can transform me; from tired to rejuvenated, humdrum to inspired and maybe just maybe a working class girl to princess (albeit in my head).   

Here are some lovely slippers that inspire me. 

Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen

Roger Vivier Spring 2009

Philip Treacy for Valentino Spring 2010