In 2004 the toes got rounder and the heels got higher. 

Ralph Lauren offers what an average American woman could or would wear.  I think this is why I am drawn to his designs.  This is what Lauren offered in 2004.  I like the sandals better than the slingbacks. 

   

On the other side of the spectrum is Alexander McQueen.  In 2004 he offered a beautiful pump with embellishments and a wonderful pair of boots that might also morph into leggings.  I couldn’t find a photo of them to determine if they are boots or leggings. I have to admit I Love the sparkly leggings and boots. 

  

      

  While Alexander McQueen’s designs can be over the top for most women, as I look at these designs I would probably wear them if given a chance.  (Although I am looking at them with 2009 eyes.)

Prada’s Ready to wear shoes still hadn’t incorporated platforms and the heels look like they are about 3.5 to 4 inches, the toes are rounded and featured graphics and exotic leathers on pumps.   The snakeskin slingback pumps are timeless. 

  

John Galliano.  Here is what he offered in Dior’s fall 2003 line.  So platforms are being shown, but not as extensively as today.

 Design houses were having a hard time. Only 6 design houses showed couture in 2004.  Balmain dropped their couture line in 2003. Valentino was the last of the old design houses to show couture.  Here are some Valentino designs.

 

As I look at the snake skin pumps I wonder, “What the hell is that blue tissue doing in her right shoe?”

 

These shoes are beautiful, but the thing I wanted to point out is her stockings.  They have subtle stripes that are noticable at a distance, which I find intriguing.

  

This is why I like Valentino.