For example, the woman who bought Gucci shoes would not spend more money on first class airfare.

FORBES: The Biggest Story of Our Time: The Rise of China's Middle Class

"They hide their shoes in the woods, " complains Airman First Class Kyle Richards, who stands guard.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Rebasing -- and Reequipping -- for Transformation

Kim Kline, a singer-songwriter who has taken the class, said she owns several pairs of shoes that are "gorgeous fashion statements, " but is reluctant to wear them because she feels off-balance.

WSJ: Workouts in High Heels Really Pump It Up

Her tennis shoes had little things doodled on them from sitting in her class lectures.

NEWYORKER: Good People

There sprung up a class system, whereby the boys who had shirts and pants and shoes were considered the wealthiest, and next were those who had two of the three.

NPR: Eggers Blends Fact, Fiction of Sudanese 'Lost Boys'

The second class encompasses the relics of lesser figures--Mother Teresa's tennis shoes.

FORBES: Holy Relics

He was easily the best dressed student in the class, striped button down shirt and pleated slacks riding above a pair of conspicuously polished leather shoes.

FORBES: The Culture Shock of India's Call Centers