What High Heels Looked Like Throughout History
In the words of Marilyn Monroe, "I don't know who invented high heels, but women owe him a lot."
An instant pick-me-up for any outfit, imbuing their wearer with confidence and giving her a figure-flattering boost, high heels have been an integral component of every woman's wardrobe for centuries. Click through to see how the shoe has evolved over the years.
1500s
The earliest instances of heeled shoes date back as far as the Egyptians, but the look really picked up steam during the 16th Century. Towering platforms called 'chopines' are thought to have originated with prostitutes in Venice for the added sex appeal the extra height offered, but soon became popular amongst aristocrats for their ability to keep clothes from dragging in the filth that covered the streets.
1700s
Though heels today are wore almost exclusively by women, the style was popular among men throughout the 1600s and 1700s. French royalty in particular, like Louis XIV (left) and Marquise de Pompadour (right), were fans of the heeled shoe as it conveyed that the wearer had no use for practical footwear, or the need to walk easily.
1800s
By Victorian times and into the early 20th century, heeled boots were the primary choice among elegant ladies. They often featured exposed buttoned closures—not that they were often seen beneath the long full skirts of the era.
1920
With the raised hemlines of the Roaring Twenties, shoes were now on display. Look at this stylish lady showing off her trendy buckle shoes.
1921
Decorative garters help when shoe styles are simple.
1922
As hemlines stayed above ground, thoughtful details like cut-outs were used to make sturdy leather pumps more interesting.
1923
This lady takes things to fancier territory with her shiny satin heels.
1924
...while this lady is all about the brocade.
1925
Ever wonder where Taylor Swift's love of T-straps originated from? These practical pumps are Exhibit A.
1926
Attempts were made to improve the T-strap style by making it in delicate satins for evening rather than clunky leathers.
1927
Now we're getting a little better. These cap-toe T-straps have an extra glam touch.
1928
More vintage shoes that Taylor Swift would probably wear today.
1929
Finally, a rare moment of height! Perhaps women were feeling bold in 1929—until the market crash, that is.
1930
1930 was a fairly frumpy year for footwear.
1931
Thank goodness for the golden era of Hollywood and its stunning starlets–like Jean Harlow– who inspired a more glamorous wave of heels.
1932
Casual.
1933
Bette Davis knew the power of a basic black pump.
1934
Now this is our kind of woman. Check out that collection!
1935
More low heels and cut-outs and sitting on random tables.
1936
Summertime shoes in 1936 were way chicer than the flip-flops worn poolside today.
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