Women’s white high heels can transform any outfit. Pair them with a cute summer sundress or your best power suit for work.
Although many women enjoy wearing heels, some feel they are required to do so by social expectation or pressure. The question is whether this compulsion is justified.
The History of High Heels
Whether elongating the legs or adding height for a more confident look, high heels are an accessory that exudes power and elegance. Yet, they can also accentuate a woman’s fragility and vulnerability, as seen in Alfred Hitchcock films like Vertigo and The Birds. Buy quality womens white high heels womens here now.
Historically, high heels originated as men’s shoes that helped secure their feet in stirrups for horse riding. Aristocrats and royalty later wore them to show their status and symbolise femininity and seduction.
By the 18th century, heels began to decline in popularity due to the French Revolution and a shift towards democracy and flat shoes. However, a few authors started to describe a delicately curved heel as an attractive feminine feature and high heels became the sole domain of women. They were soon eroticised with rising hemlines in the 1920s and Technicolor Hollywood movies of the era, including Tippi Hedren’s iconic role as a sexy call girl in Butterfield 8.
The 1980s
Throughout the 1980s, fashion took on new influences. Punk and New Wave were still popular, but other subcultural styles began to make an impact, including styles like those found in music and dance culture and designer pieces like those from Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garcons.
During this era, bold prints and colours were all the rage. Iconic models such as Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, and Christy Turlington paved the way for fearless fashion choices that broke free from the Establishment. TV shows such as Dynasty and Dallas showcased opulent lifestyles filled with power-dressing outfits of shoulder pads and bold combinations.
The 1990s
The 1990s ushered in a new era of self-expression and creativity. The decade’s fusion of styles influenced contemporary fashion, with trends such as grunge, a melding of hippy and punk popularised by bands like Nirvana, making their way into mainstream trends.
Minimalism also became popular during the 1990s as a counterbalance to the 1980s’ excess and extravagance. Influential designers like Calvin Klein and Jil Sander promoted the minimalist aesthetic with clean lines and pared-back styling.
Models of the ’90s embodied a more waif-like femininity, as epitomised by Kate Moss. She wore her hair in a sleek, slicked-back ponytail, layered gold jewellery, slip dresses and nude strappy sandals.
The Rachel haircut – made famous by Jennifer Aniston on the hit show Friends – was a fashion icon of its time, influencing countless hair transformations. And no ’90s look was complete without chokers, hoop earrings and a butterfly clip.
The 2000s
Hip-hop and pop artists influenced casual streetwear. Celebrities like Jay Z, P Diddy, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, and Destiny’s Child started wearing baggy jeans and velour tracksuits. Fashion brands like Sean John and Rocawear became iconic.
The 2000s brought back the vest trend for women, usually worn over a simple dress or bra top. It’s also a great layering piece for warm-weather outfits.
Another trend from the 2000s is the “heroin chic” look, a boho-inspired ensemble that includes yoga pants, low-rise flared jeans, cowl-neck tees, and peasant blouses. Finish off the look with a pair of wedges and a classic shoulder bag.
A great pair of heels can elevate any outfit — and the best heels are ones you can wear anywhere. Women’s heels, pumps and wedges from LifeStride combine classic, go-to silhouettes with 24/7 comfort you can wear all day, every day. Find the heel height, heel shape and shoe material that work with your style and fit you well so you can rock them with confidence.
