This book opens with a short history of shoes--an introductory essay that traces the development from prehistoric times through to today. This introduction is illustrated using museum shots of historic shoes and will prove a useful prequel to the banquet of footwear that follows. The bulk of the book looks at the great designers of the post World War II era, concentrating on the big names of today--Charles Jourdan, Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin, Fratelli Rosetti, Sergio Rossi, Walter Steiger, Jimmy Choo, Roberto Cavalli--while at the same time allowing the outrageous and inspirational--Westwood, Galliano, and fashion school students--to show the other; more outrageous end of the market. If nothing else, this book will allow the reader to learn why fans like Madonna say "Manolo Blahnik's shoes are as good as sex, but they last longer."