High Heeled Shoes Were Originally Created For Men

History is fascinating. I had no idea!

The origin of high-heels can be traced back to 15th century Persia when soldiers wore them to help secure their feet in stirrups. Persian migrants brought the shoe trend to Europe, where male aristocrats wore them to appear taller and more formidable.

https://www.teenvogue.com/story/heels-history-men
A 17th century Persian riding boot. Image © 2017, Bata Shoe Museum, Toronto, Canada.
BATA SHOE MUSEUM

“The heel was an additional tool allowing the rider to steady himself, thus using weaponry better and transforming warfare”. But soon after, women embraced the look — just like boyfriend jeans and button-up shirts, right? — and by the 18th century, high-heeled shoes were largely considered women’s footwear. They slowly began to take the shape we know now, with a thinner heel and pointed toe.

https://www.today.com/style/surprisingly-functional-reason-high-heels-were-invented-t100969
A pair of antique chopines. Image courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.
Clint Eastwood cowboy
Clint Eastwood playing a gunslinging cowboy in the ’50s.Bettmann / Bettmann Archive

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