Model brings fairy-tale touch to shoes in U.S. (Philippe Model)

Model brings fairy-tale touch to shoes in U.S. PARIS (FNS) -- Philippe Model may not be a household name in the U.S. yet, but if his European success is any indication, he may soon be making a lot of American women feel like modern-day Cinderellas.

The 30-year-old French shoe and accessories designer, who was known first for his exotic hat collections, is now gaining widespread recognition here for his four shoe lines manufactured under his name and under the name of Michel Perry. Since his label appeared nine years ago, Model's shoes have become known to Europeans for their unique, fairy-tale-like qualities that often reveal a keen sense of humor.

France's leading ready-to-wear designers, including Jean Paul Gaultier, Theirry Mugler, …