SO NOW... Dior platforms

When Gwen Stefani donned a pair of skyscraping Dior platforms and a knicker-length tutu at this week's American Music Awards, she knew she'd have maximum impact So, what inspired the look?

Gwen's Dior corset-laced couture shoes pay homage to the platform's dissolute heritage - they were first worn by 15th century Venetian prostitutes. Five hundred years later and every Seventies suburban girl with a disco-dancing alter ego coveted a pair. In the Nineties they enjoyed another renaissance when Vivienne Westwood latched on to the courtesan look.

More recent fans include flamboyant John Galliano.

How high are they?

Gwen's Dior pair added a heavenly 10 inches.

Celebrity fans Every diva worth her weight in attitude has worn them, from Boy George to The Spice Girls. Today's devotees include Anamatronic of Scissors Sisters, Kate Moss and Jade Jagger. Um, Sven- Goran Eriksson is also an admirer.

Who fell from grace?

No pain, no gain, sadly. Naomi Campbell came tumbling down to earth at Westwood's 1993 Paris show. Baby Spice and Sophie Anderton have lost their footing, too. So do remember to tread carefully.

How to walk in a pair?

Get the technique wrong and high heels will give you a bottom that puts J-Lo to shame and the hunching gait of an old lady.

To avoid disasters, Jamie Prieto of Manolo Blahnik advises: "Walk on the balls of your feet not your heels," and Kensington-based chiropractor Ida Norgaard says: "If you watch a model, she leans slightly backwards as she's walking.

You have to stick in your bum and activate your stomach muscles."

How much would I pay for a Dior pair?

Prices available on application, but expect to pay thousands.

Cheaper imitations For the mere mortals among you, the high street has an array of kooky styles to choose from. Office has some deliciously named Flora Pompoms (Pounds 49.99) and Bettie Peeptoes (Pounds 64.99). Shelly's psychedelic "Janice" shoes are also just the ticket. If you're feeling a little more daring, you can always release that tart in you with a pair of platforms from Mistress Shoes. Come on all you shrinking violets, rise to the challenge and get yourself a pair of towering diva shoes. They're so now at least for a nanosecond.

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