The History of High Heels: From Ancient Egypt to Modern Day

High heels have been a popular fashion accessory for centuries. From ancient Egypt to modern day, high heels have been worn by both men and women, and their styles and purposes have evolved throughout the years. Continue reading to explore the history of high heels, from their origins to their present-day iterations.

Ancient Egypt: The First High Heels

The first high heels can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where both men and women wore them for ceremonial purposes. Egyptian butchers wore high heels to avoid stepping in blood, and their design was simple, consisting of a raised sole made of wood or cork.

Ancient Greece and Rome: Platform Shoes

In ancient Greece and Rome, actors wore high platform shoes called kothorni to make themselves taller and more visible to the audience. The shoes were made of cork or wood, and they often had elaborate designs. In ancient Rome, high heels were a symbol of social status, and only the wealthy could afford to wear them.

Middle Ages: High Heels for Men

During the Middle Ages, high heels were predominantly worn by men. Knights wore high heels to help them stay in their stirrups while riding horses, and it became a symbol of their status and wealth. However, in the 15th century, high heels fell out of fashion for men and became exclusively worn by women.

18th Century: The Birth of the Stiletto

In the 18th century, high heels underwent a significant transformation. The stiletto heel was introduced, and it quickly became a popular choice for women. The stiletto heel was named after the stiletto dagger, and it was incredibly thin, measuring only a few millimeters in diameter. The stiletto heel was a symbol of power and femininity and remains a popular style today.

20th Century: High Heels in Pop Culture

In the 20th century, high heels became a staple in pop culture. Hollywood actresses like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn wore high heels on and off the screen, and they became synonymous with glamour and sophistication. High heels also became a symbol of female empowerment, and they were often associated with women in positions of power, such as politicians and CEOs.

Modern Day: High Heels in Fashion

Today, high heels remain a popular fashion accessory. They come in various styles, including pumps, sandals, and boots, and are made from a variety of materials, including leather, suede, patent leather and more. High heels are often worn to formal events or in the workplace, but they can also be worn as part of a casual outfit.

The history of high heels spans thousands of years, and their styles and purposes have evolved throughout the years. From ancient Egypt to modern-day, high heels have remained a popular fashion accessory, and their enduring popularity is a testament to their timeless appeal.

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