High Heels History
| But high heels actually began life as a men’s shoe. One theory says they were designed to help mounted soldiers keep their feet in the stirrups. Persians, the stories go, brought the innovation to Europe in the 15th century. |
|
| Since then, the shoes have been associated with male aristocracy (17th century), witchcraft (18th), female sex appeal (19th on) — and back, foot and calf injuries and strain. |
|
High heels are a cultural conundrum for many women who recognize both their debilitating effects and their supposed allure. And they’re a statement piece among some gender-fluid folks.
| They’re also tools for activists. Mostly men compete in Madrid Pride’s annual high-heel race (minimum height: 4 inches). And some U.S. cities host awareness-raising “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” high-heel events for men. |
|
I never wore heels over 1 inch and haven’t worn them in years. I wish they would make comfortable flats like sneakers that look nice for women–but I guess it is a man’s business
My god! Such a sensible woman. Bravo! When I lived in Europe I wore Mephistos and Birkenstocks walking shoes. They were great After returning stateside I slipped into LLBean slip on mocs. My favorite is a pair of blue suede shoes. I’ve had them for years. Comfort is key for me.
Yikes! that picture is intimidating. As I age, so the height of my heels has lessened with flats now being the most comfortable choice, although I still own a lovely pair of red/orange suede ankle boots with a wedge heel. I have owned them for more than ten years and still looking good as new. I love wearing them on special occasions but they are the only shoes I own with a heel over 5 cms (or 2 inches for those who don’t use metrics).
Thanks Joy! It is intimidating! It also reminds me of the absurd foot fashion today. I took a photo a few months ago of platform shoes young people are wearing and wondered how they could even move about without breaking something. I’ll find it and post.