Platforms appeared in the 30's lifting women to new heights. With a sense of playfulness to their disproportion, it wasn't long before they appeared on cartoon character's feet. Revived in the 80's, platforms appeared in bright colors.

All eyes are magnetically drawn to the woman wearing this shoe, reminiscent of the tall "chopine" worn by courtesans in 16th century Venice. The metallic look suggests precious coins and completes the fantasy.

Grace and elegance were the keynotes of the Edwardian era. A growing cotton trade made delicate white cotton gauzes become fashionable for everything from clothing to curtains. Beads and pearl buttons were a stylish touch for dresses and shoes.

The heat is rising, not only on the African plains, but everywhere this zebra stiletto makes an appearance. Introduced by Hollywood, this stiletto focuses attention on the sex appeal of a shapely leg and the animal instinct of the hunt.

For that special day, there's a shower of flowers at her feet. With the ankle strap first popularized in the '20s for dancing, and the tall, thick heel of the '40s for stature, the modern woman vows to dance through life.

The 1960s saw the eruption of youth culture and changing values. British designers catered to a new youth-oriented fashion industry with miniskirts and go-go boots or velvet pants and ankle boots.

The mystery and intrigue of the Orient has lured many designers to borrow a motif or copy a rich fabric design. This fantasy slipper with decidedly Turkish roots embellishes the foot boldly.

With architectural and sculptural elements, the sleek lines of this slipper appeal to the sophisticated taste of the savvy, cultured woman. The unusual circular heel would be equally at ease in a gallery or around other respectable circles.

Hollywood has often been a trendsetter, and never more than in the 1950's when vixens walking around in their handsomely appointed boudoirs in marabou slides set a new standard in fashion.

Only the most elegant fabrics and embellishments will do when she says, "I do." This contemporary wedding shoe uses elements of the Edwardian Age; satin ribbon, rich brocade and a pearl crown.

This dreamy shoe is both exotic and enticing with its shimmering pearls and frosted beads. The high vamp is like a corwn, exalting yet hiding the foot, while the backless style, revealing the arch and heel, is the ultimate in sensuality and self-assurance.