The History of High Heels: From Royalty to Runways

The Rise of Heels in Royalty

In the 17th century, wearing heels was a sign of prestige and power. The soles were red because painting them was expensive, making them a status symbol. Louis XIV, known for his extravagant fashion, decreed in 1670 that only members of his court could wear high heels, banning their use by commoners.

Meanwhile, women’s high heels gained popularity. Madame de Pompadour, Louis XV’s most famous mistress, became known for her signature "Pompadour heels."

18th Century Women's Shoes

Louis XIV, known for popularizing red-soled heels as a symbol of power, and Madame de Pompadour, who influenced feminine high heel fashion in the 18th century.

Fashion and Gender: The Great Divide

During this period, clothing and footwear began to reflect clear gender distinctions. Women were associated with emotion and delicacy, leading to footwear designs that enhanced their figure and increased height. Men, on the other hand, started wearing shorter, wider shoes, marking the beginning of modern gender-based fashion trends.

How the Enlightenment Era Killed Men’s High Heels

By the 18th century, men, who had previously worn heels, wigs, and elaborate clothing, started adopting a sober and formal style. The Enlightenment era emphasized practicality and simplicity, leading aristocrats to abandon excesses, including high heels. As dark, understated clothing became the norm for men, heels were gradually seen as unnecessary, and their association with masculinity faded.

Louis XIV and Madame de Pompadour

Men’s heeled boots from the 19th century, showing how heel styles evolved before becoming primarily associated with women’s fashion.

From Horseback to High Fashion: How Stilettos Were Born

High heels did not become an exclusively feminine trend until the late 18th century. In 1760, Italian designer Giacomo Pirandelli, also known as the Baron of Styletto, introduced the first stilettos. Originally designed to provide stability for horseback riders and support for spurs, these heels soon became a coveted fashion statement. Initially designed for men, stilettos quickly became a fashion staple among women, with some heels reaching an impressive 15 cm in height.

While early designs were still ornate and extravagant, the foundations of modern stilettos were established. Men’s styles became increasingly understated, while women’s footwear grew more refined and elegant. By the end of the century, high heels were firmly associated with femininity, and most men stopped wearing them altogether.

19th Century Men's Heeled Boots

A collection of 18th-century women’s shoes, demonstrating the evolution of high heels into fashionable, decorative footwear.

The 19th Century and the Reinvention of Heels

By the mid-19th century, high heels had become almost exclusively associated with women’s fashion. The rise of photography played a key role in shaping their perception, portraying heels as symbols of sensuality and elegance.

As men’s fashion moved toward more structured, masculine footwear, medium-height, square-heeled shoes became the standard. Meanwhile, women’s heels became slimmer and more curved, a style distinction that persists today. The only exception for men was cowboy-style boots, which retained a higher heel for practical reasons.

High Heels in Modern Fashion

Over time, high heels evolved into bold, extravagant, and highly original designs. Today, they symbolize strength, power, and confidence, allowing women to express their individuality with every step.

From royal courts to modern runways, high heels have stood the test of time. Whether as a status symbol, a fashion statement, or a confidence booster, one thing is certain—heels will never go out of style.

What Do You Think?

High heels have evolved over centuries, but their impact remains timeless. What do high heels mean to you—power, elegance, or confidence? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook so you don’t miss our future posts!

References