It’s hard to forget Sean Penn (Spicoli) sporting Vans checkerboard slip-ons in the 1982 classic Fast Times at Ridgemont High, but the shoemaker actually launched six years earlier in a corner shop in Anaheim, California. This year Vans is celebrating 50 years with a special collection (including the checkerboards), and a book about the iconic canvas shoe. Vans: Off The Wall 50th Anniversary Edition (Abrams) brings to life the Vans culture and couture.
Spicoli wasn’t the only film character known for his shoes. Check out the gallery below to see some other star-turning soles.
Sex and the City
Hello, lover! Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker) loved her Manolo Blahniks so much that when the time came (SPOILER ALERT) Mr. Big proposed with a pair.
Shawshank Redemption
Shoes played a major role in Andy Dufresne’s (Tim Robbins) escape from prison, as he used his job polishing the wardens shoes to conceal his true identity beyond the confines of the clink.
Dirty Dancing
Nobody puts Baby in a corner, but somebody did put her in a pair of Keds. She wears her trusty—albeit not so sexy—shoes to practice after practice prior to her tarty transformation.
Back to the Future
Forget the hoverboard! Marty McFly’s (Michael J. Fox) self-fastening power lace Nike high tops were the coolest thing about the future in the trilogy’s second installment.
Pretty Woman
Vivian Ward’s (Julia Roberts) boots were more than a fashion statement: They served as a handy holder for the tools of her trade. And they caught the eye of her wealthy Prince Charming, Edward (Richard Gere).
Forrest Gump
“Run Forrest!” Mr. Gump (Tom Hanks) could never have gone on his “little run” across the country (and back) without his comfortable Nike sneakers.
The Wizard of Oz
There’s no place like home…and no pair of shoes more transformative than Dorothy’s ruby slippers.
Yellow Submarine
The Beatles rocked their Cuban-heeled boots so frequently that they came to be known as Beatle Boots. They were also a wardrobe staple in Beatles films, including this animated appearance.
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