Donald J Pliner: The Selling of One’s Sole is a cautionary tale and social commentary about the American Dream realized on the sketch pads of fashion. It’s a tale of a life of wild highs achieved on the back of abysmal lows only to be followed by yet another insane cycle of fiscal ups and downs. For Donald, this ride was an addiction, one that he describes as “a roller coaster and my drug of choice”.
Many others came along solely for the thrill of the ride and nothing else, leaving Donald alone to navigate the harsh world of fashion that has ruthlessly consumed so many. Yet, through all the drama and turbulence there was one constant, Donald’s loyal fans who would line up for hours to see him in person, having him sign their shoes, expressing adulation normally reserved for rock stars.
Like rock stars, Donald has the “it” factor. Legal problems and corporate greed, fueled by bad advice and incessant decisions from the hip, all factor into this tale of turmoil. Celebrities and fashion luminaries play roles in his story – Diana Ross, Tina Turner, Cher, Elton John, Wayne Newton, Suzanne Somers, Gianni Versace, Perry Ellis, Kevan Hall, Vanessa Noel, and countless others.
Learning the trade in his father’s shoe stores in Chicago’s legendary “Black Belt”, rising to own an iconic emporium on Beverly Hill’s Rodeo Drive, lauded by the press at every step, only to find himself waking up a few years later in a $27.00 a night room in New York City (which he couldn’t afford), followed a short time later waking up in a $23 million mansion next to his wife Lisa on Miami’s Star Island (which he also couldn’t afford), building a family with the help of the KGB, from triple brain surgery given only hours to live, to finally settling down to a peaceful life in the desert.
Authors: R. Scott French & Vivian Kelly
Publisher: TheFashionList
Retail: $60.00 Link for purchase: www.thefashionlist.com/shop