Made to order

There was a time when a pair of bespoke shoes was the domain of the wealthy and high-born. However, the world has become an emancipated place and these days handmade shoes are available to the general public.

Affordable and even online versions are now available. The famous shoe manufacturers Anello and Davide, established in 1922, specialise in theatrical and dance footwear. Back in the day, Anello and Davide made high-heels for Marilyn Monroe and created the ruby-red shoes worn by Judy Garland's Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. The brand also made the Cuban heeled ankle boots for the Beatles in the early 60s, which were subsequently dubbed the Beatle boots.

Thanks to its significant contribution to the stage and cinema, the brand has been awarded with two royal warrants, one by the Queen Mother in 1997 and the second by the reigning queen in 2001. Anello and Davide shoes are worn by celebrities ranging from Victoria Beckham and Denise van Outen to Sir John Guilgud.

The bespoke shoes can be ordered off the internet. The Anello and Davide site offers clients a brochure which contains the company's copyrighted measuring system and choice of heels, heights and toeshapes. Of course, shoes made in this manner are not one hundred percent bespoke, but this approach does mean that the shoes become more affordable, starting at GBP120.

Furthermore, the Beatle boots can still be ordered in either the ready-to-wear version from GBP165 or the special editions from GBP225. The bespoke versions, made to order in exact personal measurements and specifications are available from GBP495.

In addition to its bespoke shoes the company has introduced a limited edition line of ready-to-wear shoes called A&D, available on its website. The shoes are modern in design, with new styles in store every four to six weeks. Prices start from GBP60. The shops are currently having a sale of 100% custom-made shoes, with prices ranging from GBP45 to GBP260.