Jkrenzer

4 hours ago, bambam said:

This back and forth between tradition and 'progressive' is exactly my biggest issue. I am not playing a game, and I really don't want to be seen as a proponent of either worldview, and when I see models, actors, musical artists and 'influencers' playing the gender-bender game, I become even more wary of the future, and a little disappointed, as I don't think that world is doing a single bit of good for people who just want to live. 

Well said but just two sentences?

That's nice.

I like her pose, was that her truly relaxed or did the photographer suggest it.

Either way hope you gave her a nice massage.

You both look amazing. Who took the photo?

6 hours ago, chesterx said:

I am wondering if it is because I'm visiting the same locations most of the time & people just got used to it.

I would say this is correct. We humans are animals after all. We tend to routine ourselves.

Several of my routine travels have people also in routine so we see these strangers often. In my case, my Friday morning breakfast spot often has a certain ex female college basketball player who loves my heels. She's always telling me she looks forward to seeing what o have on. We have the same size feet but athletics ruined her feet, total arch collapse, so she can't wear heels.

There is acceptance. I currently wear heels openly at work, 5 inch classic pumps. In years past these were considered CFM heels. I have no issues, been promoted and received large raises due to my work.

When out in public I rarely get comments and when I do it's usually from women who love my shoes and wished they could wear such.

To me that's acceptance. 

42 minutes ago, mlroseplant said:

Puleeeeeze. You Californians don't even truly know the meaning of the word "cold."😂😂😂

Yah, I'm glad to say I'm forgetting the meaning myself having moved to winston-salem from syracuse. 

I did live on Omaha for 5 yrs along time ago, pre internet even.

I think all black and the shape would look pretty good on you.

4 hours ago, Puffer said:

I was aware of the growing ASOS offerings with heels - of various styles and heights - but hadn't spotted the new one you link.   I agree that they are hideous in terms of the pattern, although the overall style and heel is quite appealing, albeit too extreme for public wearing for most men, including me.   What I had in mind as a possible (and affordable) 'ASOS winner' is a close copy of the YSL boots with a heel of around 3.5".   There is nothing quite like that from ASOS at present, but who knows ...

Why are these heels too extreme for you? Is only because you can't handle the height or is it because you're worried about what others think?

Hopefully the prior as a little, I mean little, practice and you shouldn't have any issues. These are really not very high relative to men's sizes. If it's the latter, then it's unfortunate and  part of the problem.

I admit that many times the 1st impressions people have had of me is "gay". It's not insult, just not the case. Once a conversation is struck that impression goes away. Been actually told this. Then the question is "why". I simply answer because I like to.

1 hour ago, kneehighs said:

I've listened to a few of his interviews. He always seemed like a decent guy to me. 

I'm sure people assume I'm gay too when they see me in heels. It's just their shortcut way to understand the world by classifying me into something they already understand.  That's the value of a stereotype.  So instead of blaming the LGBT community, Bryan might have better focused on the challenges inherent in getting people to think outside their comfort zone stereotypes as his unique battle.

I agree he likely meant nothing negative but he he should have picked up on the facial expressions. But instead he continued to proceed despite the obvious hurt feelings displayed.

I've never been known for my understanding of others feelings, I'm known to be blunt. But even I could see his comments causing issues during the interview. 

Aside, I really likes Mark's sling backs.

Bryan was not empathetic at all.  I'm a straight male in heels but totally respect those who aren't. It takes incredible courage for people who transform. I have none of those urges but if I did I don't know if I'd have the strength to go through with it.

Been a little while. I have another old pair of Maddens on. These also have a hidden platform, thicker than my Darrt. These are called Lipstyck, the manliness of names.

Not any of us doubted you did.

How long will the remodel take?

I've been going yearly now as well. Had some removal in one ear last yr, this year clean. I worn a pair of 5 inch Mary Janes. The ladies all loved them, amazed how well I walked in them.

Same with the dentist and family doctors office.

Ah but there is. Crazy people are getting lengthening surgery. Me, just wear high heels.

All kidding aside, I'm pretty sure kidding kneehighs was complimenting your proportions. Those heels look like they should be be there.

I'm proud to say I have none of the above. No Facebook, no Twitter etc either.

I like the seemingly closeness of this forum and have no desire for in your face low grade internet media. Never bothered and don't miss it.

I'm a 90% daily wearer. Heels are my primary go to shoes. Unlike Melrose, I go with 5 inch just about all the time. I keep a large supply of replacement tips available for this reason.

Mike you still have that pair of heels? Pretty old photo.

I wear mine at work but I'd never interview that way. Took years, external public observations etc. People then knew well in advance that I was a high heeler.  Also I'm a good producer. 

Finally, after I knew it would be OK, did I introduce my heels at work. Even, still only in my work area. Never around customers and obviously not in either the factory or engineering lab.

Must know your audience for something perceived as outlandish to most as  a man in heels.

I may need to take some home.

10 hours ago, spikesmike said:

Shyheels : I was a shuttle driver at the Ohio State Fair. I drove a Johne Deer tractor- pulling two (2) large wagons to transport fair goers from the massive parking lot to the pay booths and entrance, just north of 17th avenue.  Loads of fun.  Mike

Sounds like fun. Not a career challenging interview. I wear my heels at work but never for a real interview. 

Today I've got my old 1969 leather pumps.

Just wear your pumps, and get some stiletto boots. Works for me anyway. All year.

I put this in this topic because I am at work this morning with these on.

Anyway, I wanted to discuss platforms. I personally am not a fan since I find them to generally be clumpy and ungainly. I do have a few though but rarely find myself wearing them, well except these. These are Steve Madden Darrt pumps. They have about a 3/8" internal hidden platform. Best disguise I've ever seen. The soles are a bit stiff but still flexible just enough to walk in without the rolling effect of higher platforms. 

This style has been gone for a while now, but I wouldn't mind seeing it come back.

It's another reason I prefer vamps with some toe cleavage. Sexier look and better fit.

Good luck.