The Victoria and Albert Museum announces a new summer shoe exhibition
Titled 'Shoes: Pleasure and Pain'
With more than 200 pairs of antique and contemporary shoes from around the world on display, The V&A's Shoes: Pleasure and Pain will be shown over two floors and split into three sections.
The 'Transformation' area will present shows that are part of worldwide legends and folklore, 'Status' will explore how extravagant shoes have come to represent privilege, and 'Seduction' will be dedicated to how shoes have become a source of pleasure and empowerment.
"Shoes are one of the most telling aspects of dress," Helen Persson, the exhibition's curator, said. "Beautiful, sculptural objects, they are also powerful indicators of gender, status, identity, taste and even sexual preference. Our choice in shoes can help project an image of who we want to be."
Shoes worn by or associated with celebrities including Marilyn Monroe, Sarah Jessica Parker and Daphne Guinness will also be shown alongside historic footwear such as footwear worn by Queen Victoria and many more.
Unique designs by Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo and Prada will also be on display – with the exhibition charting not only the shocking shoes worn throughout time, but also the world of obsession and joy that comes with them.
The V&A's 'Shoes: Pleasure and Pain' will exhibit 13 June 2015 – 31 January 2016
