Last on this page is a bridesmaid’s shoe, and it could well be taken as a pattern of style for anyone called upon to enact that part. The bow of silk ribbon harmonises with the heliotrope coloured satin, of which this shoe and its two predecessors are made. [Illustration: PLATE XIII.] Plate XIV. First appears in this shoe a further idea of contrivances for firm wear. This is in the form of a useful elastic strap, covered with heliotrope satin bow to match shoe. It is a more clumsy appliance than the indrawn heel at the top, before described in Plate XII. The second shoe, also in heliotrope shade, but of silk, belonged to the Comtesse de Paris, and is decorated with real lace. It has a square toe and low heel. No. 3 is distinguished for its embroidery, the species of flower and the blending of its colours harmonising so well with the lilac colour of satin. [Illustration: PLATE XIV.] Plate XV. First, a shoe which can be certified as Imperial, and bears the French print of good taste in elaboration. The little border of lace all round the edge and also round the bow gives daintiness and lightness, whereas the gold embroidery gives massive richness at the same time. The additional knot of gold lace and tassels is peculiarly handsome and effective, and the rich embroidery and bead work extends even to the heel--an Imperial heel evidently demanding special adornment. Algiers contributes this specimen of slipper, Eastern in design and shape, and in its lavish covering of patterned gold. No. 3 is another case of the evening “Oxford” shoe. It is beautifully shaped and free from clumsiness, and the embroidery in lightness and effectiveness of design scores a success. The Duchess who chose and wore it might well be imitated in such a fashion. [Illustration: PLATE XV.] Plate XVI. The first shoe on this plate belonged to and was worn by Miss Christine Nilsson in “Lohengrin.” It is of cloth of gold, and testifies that the great singer does not neglect, in her superior charm of voice, the additional charm of dress. The gilt buttons are appropriate, and the crystal studs, glistening like dewdrops across the instep, are original in arrangement. The toe is very elongated. Otherwise the shoe is of the ordinary approved shape. No, 2 is gilded kid, superior to the cloth of woven gold thread from its untarnishable quality. The round gilt button makes a neat finish. The heel is rather low for smart effect. The third shoe of cloth of gold boasts a Duchess for its quondam owner, who, in turn, can boast that her foot could grace its tiny dimensions. The sole ornament of loops of braid is uncommon, in the fact that it is composed of bullion and not tinsel. The shoe has a Louis heel and white kid lining. [Illustration: PLATE XVI.] Plate XVII.