Friday, October 1, 2010

High Heels

After a discussion I got into recently I have decided to satisfy my curiosity on a matter I have often puzzled over: Why on earth do so many girls wear high heels? The following is a survey I plan to give out to a few friends and thought I would make it available for those I am not likely to see in the near future as well - you can leave a comment with the numbers you would "circle" on a paper survey as well as any additional reasons I may have overlooked.



I have always been baffled by high heels and have never been able to figure out what purpose they serve. For this reason I have assembled the following survey, to be taken by those of the female persuasion, as to why you, as a group, sometimes choose to strap yourselves into these contraptions. What I am asking for is your perception of the main reasons why most girls choose to wear heels which may or may not reflect your personal thoughts on the subject.

Please circle all that apply:

1. They make one appear taller
2. They make one appear more sophisticated
3. They make one appear more “down to earth”
4. They appear attractive in a “classy” way
5. They appear attractive in a “sexy” way
6. They appear attractive in a natural/innocent way
7. They promote a posture/body shape that appears attractive in a “classy” way
8. They promote a posture/body shape that appears attractive in a “sexy” way
9. They promote a posture/body shape that appears attractive in a natural/innocent way
10. They promote a posture that is healthful
11. They elevate one’s visual vantage point
12. They make one appear vain
13. The sound they make on a hard surface draws attention
14. The sound they make on a hard is pleasant/attractive to others
15. They make one appear helpless/needy (like foot binding by the ancient Chinese)
16. It is expected for females conforming with society to wear them
17. They strengthen one’s ankle muscles (in practice for ice skating?)
18. They are comfortable
19. They are financially economical to purchase
20. They are an efficient and/or legal way to carry a weapon
21. They help to aerate lawns
22. They allow one to locate cracks/holes in a sidewalk without looking
23. They are good detectors of cheap flooring by punching holes
24. They provide good grip on slippery or icy surfaces
25. Wearing them has a positive effect on the weather

6 comments:

fallstarr said...

I am not a fan of heels because I think they require a high pain tolerance, are bad for your feet and back, and are just uncomfortable and crippling all around (i.e. "you mean I can't run to x location and can only walk 3 blocks?").

I have read that they are a statement of power and wealth... they cause a women's posture to be "more sexy", helpless, etc., and are "cute" in themselves.

My short friends say they just want to be taller, which I can sympathize with. I once had a tall and imposing friend, and after standing on a curb talking to him, I realized what a difference it made to my perception of him to talk at eye level - he no longer seemed so imposing!

The plus was that this short friend made me and all her bridesmaids wear flats, which I was thoroughly delighted about!

I also think it's ridiculous to wear shoes to fancy events that result in shoe removal or bringing another pair of shoes. High heels = barefoot women (in a few hours). Sort of defeats the purpose of wearing shoes. Also I prefer to enjoy events rather than be in serious foot/lower back pain.

I do think in some cases heels can look nice with short dresses but usually because I live in the city and WALK everywhere avoid them.

So: 1,4,5,8,11 for most I know.

- Karen O. (from AMOR so long ago!)

fallstarr said...

PS. Hope you're well. The current plan is for Justin to go back to Peru later this year and film a followup and finish the whole documentary, finally!

Katalin said...

So may I ask a question? why do men tie a rope around their neck? I don't know what a tie's purpose is other than, for looks.
Perhaps todays people just have a funny idea of style. Hey at least you don't have to be wondering about hoops skirts and corsets. answer to your question though generally most women would say 2,5,& 11 although 20-25 sure did make me laugh!

Elwyn Garaza said...

What a great list!! Entertaining, and insightful in its implications :-D

Christy Joy said...

lol - I agree with Katie. A similar list could be written for ties.

But, to answer your survey, the numbers I quickly jotted down are:
1,2,4,5,7,8, & 16

Lisa :) said...

I gave up heels when I was pregnant with Andrew!! Different center of balance. Tried again when he was born. Can't balance with a squirmy baby and definitely not a good idea with an active toddler!!!! :) Now,.....let's just say that age and wisdom say no!!!!! :) Lisa