For this post, we’re going to chat about probably the most uncomfortable part of fashion there is- high heels. When was the idea to lift the heel off the ground and make it more difficult to get around?
Well, as history has it, those pointy little foot holds were made for men originally, not women!
It traces back to the 10th century where Persian men had heels put on the back of their riding boots to help fit better in the stirrups. It was an additional tool allowing the rider to steady himself while yielding weapons and such.
Jump ahead to 1533. Catherine de Medici had an arranged marriage to the Duke of Orleans at the age of 14. She was quite petite in stature and had to compete for attention with the Duke’s favorite mistress who was tall. She had 2 inches added to the heel of her shoes which lengthened her look and gave her a different sway when she walked.
The royalty part of high heels continued into the 17th century with King Louis XIV. He wore high heel shoes with red painted bottoms, which signified wealth during those times. He thought it was so important that only noblemen who were allowed in his court were allowed to wear those red bottoms.
Since then, high heels became a fashionable accessory to lengthen your physique for both men and women.
Now a days, high heels come in all shapes and sizes, and is accessible to all. Costing anywhere from $10-$10,000, you can find the heel for you. As long as prepared to walk the walk.
Stay tuned for more episodes on Who Invented That?
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