Women in Sexy High Heels: Why We Still Can't Let Go of Gender and Beauty Norms

When it comes to women's fashion, high heels have long been a staple item that exudes confidence, sophistication, and femininity. But why do we still wear them despite their discomfort and the cultural pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards? According to recent studies, people perceive women who wear high heels as more attractive, feminine, and well-off, which has led researchers to conclude that this 'staple of women's fashion' may not be on its way to oblivion.

One study published in Personality and Individual Differences found that when participants were shown silhouettes of a woman wearing either high heels or flats, they rated the former as more attractive, feminine, and well-off. The study's authors suggest that this is because high heels change lumbar curvature, exaggerate the chest and hips, and increase pelvic tilt, making a woman's walk more alluring.

Laurie Brucker, an image consultant, personal stylist, and confidence coach, agrees that high heels require a certain type of strut, which forces women to move their hips in a way that bolsters both attractiveness and ideas of femininity. This is further reinforced by magazine covers and fashion show catwalks, where high heels are often a key element.

However, despite the cultural power that high heels hold, there is a growing trend towards comfort over pain when it comes to footwear. Recent data suggests that for the first time ever, sales of trainers have overtaken those of high heels, with 59% of female consumers admitting they prefer flats compared to just 12% who would rather opt for a pair of heels.

This shift may be seen as a positive development in the ongoing struggle against unrealistic beauty standards and low self-esteem. However, it also serves to further illustrate the grim reality that even in 2022, we are still far from discarding gender and beauty norms. The fact that people continue to perceive high heels as a key factor in determining a woman's attractiveness and femininity is a testament to the enduring power of cultural norms.

In conclusion, while high heels may not be going away anytime soon, it's important to recognize the impact they have on our perceptions of women and their place in society. As we continue to strive for greater gender equality and body positivity, it's essential that we challenge these norms and promote a culture of comfort, confidence, and self-acceptance.

Women in sexy high heels