History of High Heels

The history of high heels dates back to ancient Egypt, where butchers wore them to avoid stepping in animal blood. Later on, during the 16th century, they became popular amongst European aristocrats as a symbol of status and prestige. It is said that Catherine de Medici, the wife of King Henry II of France, popularized high heels in Europe. She was short in stature and wanted to appear taller, so she started wearing heels.

During the 17th century, heels became more fashionable for women, and they often wore high-heeled shoes with a platform sole, known as chopines, to make them appear taller. In the 18th century, high heels fell out of fashion for men but remained popular for women. In the 20th century, heels became a mainstream fashion item for both sexes, and different styles and heights were introduced, such as stilettos and wedges.

Today, high heels are worn as a fashion statement, to elongate the legs and make the wearer feel confident. They are often associated with formal or dressy occasions, but can also be worn casually. High heels come in a variety of styles, colors, and materials, and are designed to be both stylish and comfortable.

Brief Chronology
High heels have been around for many centuries and have evolved significantly throughout the ages. Here is a brief overview of the history of high heels:

- Ancient times: In ancient Egypt, butchers wore heels to keep their feet above the animal blood. In ancient Greece, actors wore high shoes called "kothorni" to make them appear taller on stage.

- 15th century: High heels made an appearance in Europe, with both men and women wearing platform-style shoes called "chopines," which often reached as high as 30 inches.

- 16th century: High heels became a symbol of power and status for men and women in Europe, with heels reaching up to six inches in height.

- 17th century: High heels became more popular for women than men, and shoe designs became more elaborate, with floral patterns and gold and silver embroidery.

- 18th century: Heels decreased in height, and designs became more simplistic. Women's shoes were often made with silk or satin and decorated with bows and rosettes.

- 19th century: The Industrial Revolution brought about changes in fashion, and shoes were mass-produced. The first modern high-heeled shoe, called the "pompadour," was introduced in the mid-1800s and featured a curved heel.

- 20th century: High heels continued to be popular, with different styles and heights introduced, such as stilettos in the 1950s and platform shoes in the 1970s.

Today, high heels remain an essential fashion item for many people around the world, with an endless variety of styles, materials, and heights to choose from.

• 5 Jun, 2023