From platforms to brogues, kitten heels to ballet flats, there are many types of shoes to choose from. The question is, which should a stylish modern woman choose?
With the autumn/winter 2012 catwalk shows still favouring the high heel, and only a handful of designers choosing flats over heels, it seems the high heel is still a fashion must have.
Vivienne Westwood has been showing extreme platform heels that even the most experienced heel wearer would have trouble walking in. Alexandra McQueen has been showing shoes that look as if they defy the laws of gravity. It seems designer are trying to push the boundaries of the high heeled shoe into something new and innovative, with Erdem also creating an innovative heel that will turn heads.
On the other hand, flats have become popular over the last decade with Marc Jacobs incorporating ballet flats and loafers into his shoe collection. Even Jimmi Choo, who is famous for his awe inspiring sky scraper heels, has got on the flats bandwagon by designing leather ballet flats. Flat shoes have many variations, similar to heels, but are more practical for the fast paced lifestyles of today.
A question that is often asked of women is why they wear heels. The answer that most women would give is that it makes their legs appear longer therefore making them look thinner. Many women would also say that wearing heels gives them better posture and makes them feel more confident about their bodies as the high heels create a slimmer silhouette.
The popularity of TV shows such as The Hills, Ugly Betty and Sex and the City has created a fashion conscious society, as the number of women wearing heels everyday has increased since the launch of these shows.
This being said, wearing high heels everyday could be hazardous to your health. One of the most common health complaints is back and leg pain. Over time this could lead to sciatica, a condition causing severe pain and numbness. Other conditions that could be caused by high heels are Achilles tendon, which can cause pain and discomfort in the heels and feet, as well as bunions and pain in the knees. Knowing that these conditions can be prevented by not wearing heels so often makes you wonder, is it really worth it?
Although you would think that flats couldn’t give you any health concerns, there are a few conditions to watch out for. If you wear flats all day every day risks include fallen arches, a condition caused by the foot not being supported properly, which many flat shoes do not do.
The answer seems to be staring you in the face, which is to wear both heels and flats. Sometimes flats can take away from the statement you are trying to make with the outfit, when you really just need a pair of skyscraper heels to finish it off. In other circumstances, flats are more practical and a lot more comfortable!
After all, it’s your choice.
Heels for the win! Heels improve posture and the way in which you walk. What if Marilyn Monroe hadn’t worn heels,absolutely unthinkable.
I agree. I love heels and where them often and have too many pairs to count!