Class Acts: Iconic Shoes
![iconic shoes](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/palter.jpg?w=200)
1950: Palter De Liso’s Vixen pump, a reissue from the 1950s, is a nod to timeless design. Wolford bodysuit (worn throughout), Levi’s jeans.
1950: Palter De Liso’s Vixen pump, a reissue from the 1950s, is a nod to timeless design. Wolford bodysuit (worn throughout), Levi’s jeans.
Since 1930: Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star high-top sneakers (on both models) were originally designed for basketball players but are also a slam dunk on ballet dancers.
1996: John Lobb first set up shop on London’s Regent Street in 1866 and soon became known for its bespoke boots, especially the Jodphur and Chelsea styles. Here: suede Jodphur II ankle boots, Hook & Albert socks.
1969: Adidas Originals’ Superstar sneaker has long been a favorite of musicians and hip-hop artists, from Run D.M.C. and Pharrell to this version, by Rita Ora. Current/Elliott jeans.
1960: Dr. Marten’s 1460 boots were launched on April Fool’s Day by British shoe manufacturer R. Griggs Group and soon became popular with everyone from police officers to punk musicians and their fans. Levi’s jeans.
1982: Nike’s Air Force 1 high-top sneaker was the first basketball shoe under the ‘Air’ line and designed by Bruce Kilgore. It takes its name from the President’s plane.
1971: Birkenstock developed the first contoured insole back in 1897, with the unisex Arizona sandal become synonymous with comfort and hippie style.
1979: Tod’s Gommino driving shoes came from founder Diego Valle’s desire for mocs that fit like a glove. They were first popularized by frequent wearer Gianni Agnelli of Fiat. A.P.C. jeans.
1968: Dr Scholl’s Original sandal was the first sculpted wood slide, designed by a doctor. J Brand jeans.
1912: L.L. Bean’s Bean boots often have wait lists—not surprising, since they’re still handmade in Brunswick, Maine.
1938: Salvatore Ferragamo’s Rainbow sandal was originally created for Judy Garland. Gucci jeans.
1994: Manolo Blahnik’s Campari Mary Jane was dubbed an “urban shoe myth” by Carrie Bradshaw on “Sex and the City” for its rarity. Rag & Bone jeans.
1967: Roger Vivier’s Decollete U-block heel is a modern spin on the original design for Catherine Deneuve in “Belle de Jour.” Alexa Chung for AG jeans.
1957: Chanel ballet flats were first conceived as a beige slingback with a black toe cap to give the illusion of a smaller shoe size and longer legs. Frame Denim jeans.
2013: While Stuart Weitzman designs more than 600 styles a year, he’s now perhaps best-known for his popular over-the-knee boot, such as this Highland version.
1936: G.H. Bass & Co. Original Weejuns penny loafers were created as a spin on a traditional Norwegian farmer’s shoe.
Since 1945, FN has chronicled the triumph of a transformative footwear industry. Azzedine Alaia’s stunning laser-cut stilettos prove once and for all that you’re never fully dressed without a great pair of shoes.