The legendary designer Salvatore Ferragamo created one of the world's most unique fashion institutions. Ferragamo was born at the end of 19th-century in Naples, Italy. After assembling a pair of shoes for his older sister, Ferragamo decided to make shoes for a living. He was only nine years old when he made this decision. After honing his craft, Ferragamo moved to the United States and helped his brother design and manufacturer cowboy boots.

Several years later, Ferragamo wheedled his brothers into moving out to California to set up shop in Hollywood. Initially, Ferragamo and his brothers created handmade shoes out of a small shop. However, the aristocrats of Hollywood film soon invited Ferragamo to come up with footwear designs for the movies. His most famous piece, by far, was his ruby slippers, which he designed for Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz.

High on the heels of his Hollywood success, Ferragamo moved back to his native Italy in the late 1920s to start his own shop. By the early 1950s, Ferragamo and his artisans were creating nearly 350 pairs of shoes per day. In 1960, Ferragamo died and left the business to his two sons.

Today the Ferragamo brand is known the world over for producing visionary women's shoes, accessories, such as handbags, perfumes, and other luxury items. Ferragamo shoes are known for their timeless elegance, durability, and striking styles. In 1995, Italy dedicated a museum to Ferragamo.