"I don't know who invented heels, but all women owe him a lot," once said Marilyn Monroe. Her sentiment reflects the integral role high heels play in today’s women’s wardrobes. Whether for a grand celebration, a romantic evening, or a professional setting, high heels enhance elegance, confidence, and femininity.
Did you know that high heels were originally worn by men? Ancient Egyptian butchers wore them to avoid getting their feet dirty in pools of blood. Similarly, Mongol warriors under Genghis Khan wore heeled boots to secure their feet in stirrups for better control.
The Evolution of Heels
The 16th century brought significant changes with the introduction of the wedge-heeled shoe, popularised by Catherine de Medici. Her 1533 wedding to the Prince of Orleans saw her debuting a new style at the French court, marking a shift in high heel fashion across Europe.
For centuries, high heels were a symbol of aristocracy, exemplified by Louis XIV's iconic red heels. Red dye was rare and expensive, making red heels a sign of wealth and status. Marie Antoinette also became renowned for her extravagant footwear, though these opulent styles faded with the French Revolution.
Modern High Heels: From Stilettos to Fashion Icons
It wasn’t until 1888 in the USA that stilettos gained popularity. Originally hidden beneath long dresses, these heels eventually became more visible as fashion evolved through the 20th century.
Christian Dior’s 1947 collection featured high heels that would influence fashion globally. Renowned shoemaker Roger Vivier designed the first real stiletto heels, reinforced with steel for durability. The 1970s further cemented high heels as symbols of femininity and style, with skirts rising and heels becoming a staple of chic fashion.
