For generations they have signified femininity and glamour - but a pair of high heels was once an essential accessory for men.
For generations they have signified femininity and glamour - but a pair of high heels was once an essential accessory for men.
Impracticality and fashion are often interlinked. The affluent traditionally have less of a need for function over form, so styles trend towards the extreme end of inconvenience to convey opulence. Emulating the wealthy is seen as a way to project wealth and status. As styles trickle down, the less sensible elements become associated with elegance.
Condensed, high heels are a way to signal affluence whether or not it exists.
They have also stuck around for women because they increase height and standing on tiptoes makes the leg muscles contract which are both commonly considered attractive even without the association with elegance/wealth.
Men don’t show off their calves.