Aug 29 2009
Women's shoe maestro Stuart Weitzman has unveiled this year's "Cinderella Shoes," to be worn to the 78th Annual Academy Awards, by Kathleen "Bird" York. The Oscar nominee who wrote and sang "In the Deep," from the movie Crash.
The unveiling took place at Weitzman's annual dinner party, and was followed with a special performance by York.
This marks the fourth year that this master designer has created a pair of incredibly ornate and unbelievably valuable fantasy shoes, to be worn by one lucky star on the big night.
Special Shoes Need a Special Star
The starlet of choice has never been a huge name, as that would take away from the whole "Cinderella" idea. Instead, the women chosen have been stars on the rise; a person for who the Academy Awards Ceremony represents Cinderella's ball. But unlike the fairy tale, you can bet these Cinderellas never left one of their shoes behind.Previous versions of Weitzman's fantasy shoes have been valued at over $2 million, and the chosen celebrities have included Alison Krauss (2004) and Laura Elena Harring (2002).
The Cost of Fantasy Shoes
In addition to monetary value, this year's shoes bring another sense of worth, having been made with pieces of Rita Hayworth's Jewelry. Permission to use the jewels was given by the screen legend's daughter Princess Yasmin Aga Khan.The designer had chosen one pair of diamond earrings; one pair of ruby earrings; and a final pair of earrings were chosen specifically to coordinate with Kathleen York's dress. The jewels alone are estimated to have a value of $3 million (US).
What Happens After the Oscars
What happens when the Oscars are over? Listen closely, 'cause here's your shot: the jewels will be replaced with Swarovski crystal replicas, and the new version will be auctioned off the day after the awards ceremony. Proceeds will go to the Alzheimer's Association, with respect to the fact that Rita Hayworth suffered with Alzheimer's prior to her death in 1987.More on:
Stuart Weitzman
The Oscars
Alzheimer's Disease
Rita Hayworth
Alison Krauss
