A new exhibition at the University of California, Davis, is bringing what the world puts on its feet up to eye level. The UC Davis Design Museum’s current show, “Stepping Out,” features shoes from across the globe and from bygone eras. The event was researched and curated with the help of university students, including Nora Cary. “Shoes do more than complete the perfect outfit,” Cary said in a statement. “All shoes have something important to tell us, whether it is about function, fashion or folk life.” The exhibition includes footwear from places as diverse as Iran, India and the U.S., and will be on display through July 12. Justin Fenner
If women can step up into sky-high heels, why can’t men add an inch or two to their height? California-based LiftKits offers an affordable and immediate way to make a man a tad taller through its height-enhancing shoe insoles. The product comes in two versions: the Hi-Top, which adds as much as 2 inches in height, and the Lo-Top, offering 1 inch of boost. The creators claim that in addition to adding height, the inserts can improve a wearer’s confidence and even their posture. LiftKits are sold online at Myliftkits.com, priced at $20 for the Lo-Tops and $25 for the Hi-Tops. They also will be available for wholesale purchase in late 2009. J.F.
