Gige

Being guilty of stating the obvious, that which would be considered "high heels," is very much left to the individual wearing such. Generally, most "major" online retailers (e.g. Zappos, DSW, etc.) list heel heights as 'low:' 1" - 2"/2.5 - 5cm; 'mid:' 2" - 3"/5cm - 7.5cm; "high" 3" - 4"/7.5cm - 10cm; and "ultra high" as over 4"/10cm. I think this is a generally a fair categorization of heel highs but to me, 4"/10cm is barely "ultra high," as that is ~5"/12.5cm of higher. I cannot remember where I found the link, but I watched a video on Youtube arguing the point that men are technically wearing heels if they should be sporting footwear such as cowboy boots or similar. Those, afterall, often have a heel, albeit rather low, but, still have a heel. A quick Google search of "Men's heeled boots" return a fair number of results in which the heel appeared to be >1"/2.5cm. So, the argument goes, men may be wearing heeled footwear and not even realize it. In order to make this a truly superfluous exercise, allow me to ask the question of what if the shoe/boot has a platform? So, if a 4"/7.5cm shoe/boot, for example, has a 1.5"/3cm platform, does that make it a "mid heel?" What if the heel height and platform are equal, making essentially a "flat?" I really do not think it matters much as at the end of the day, each person wears what is comfortable.

There were some responses to various threads on which I wanted to comment but, admittedly, I am too lazy to go back and try and find them. Thus, I going to throw out a melange of thoughts here - think of it as High Heel goulash. First, someone had mentioned the idea of more men wanting to wear heels in public but for reasons unknown, do not do so. For a time, I was an assistant administrator of a group promoting men wearing high heels in public on a different social media platform. I happened to notice a few trends worthy of discussion based solely on my observations, and not on research or scientific data. It appears that the number of men who actually wear heels in public is but a very small percent of those who want to do so. It seems that fear over some sort of negative reaction, consequence, or the expectation of "men being men" was the greatest hurdle to doing so. This is completely understandably as the idea of men wearing heels or dressing "en femme" is still taboo and may always be to some. Although I could not make any sort of reasonable estimation, I would believe it is fair to say there are a fair number of men out there who will forever hold a secret desire to wear heels out in public but the fear of reaction to such prevents them from doing so. One of the reasons I stepped away from this group was due to the fact that, although it was created with the purpose of getting society to accept men wearing high heels, very few of the contributions to it were of men wearing heels in public. I came to believe that many of the members held a deep fantasy of wanting to wear heels in public and this was as close as they could get to doing so. Next, I seem to recall a thread somewhere about whether the excitement of wearing heels in public fades after a while. I given this a lot of thought and my answer is "Yes" and "No." My wearing heels of any height in public is now my norm, so yes, the thrill of doing so has faded to some degree. There are still times when it is exciting such as when I am wearing a new style of heels or outfit. Recently, I started wearing open-toe heels (and Espadrilles) in both public and to work, and it was exciting the first few instances of such as I believed that I would never do so. Now that we are heading into the autumn and the cooler weather, boot weather will soon be here and I am excited to finally be able to wear a skirt to the office (As previously noted, my office is so over air conditioned, heavy clothes are required in the summer to remain warm and thus, my summer skirts are "too thin" to be worn there). So, I suppose it is fair to say that the thrill of wearing heels in public does diminish when it becomes the "norm" or is, in fact, expected. For me, however, the thrill of wearing heels in public is still exciting because before I head out to wherever, I take a look at myself in the mirror and love what I see. Likewise, I park my car at the farthest end of my building's parking lot and at the end of my work day as I head to my vehicle, I see my reflect in the other cars I pass along en route. Simply seeing my outfit or even knowing that it is "cute" still develops a tremendous emotional charge for me. I adore the look of wide leg pants pair with a pair of kitten heels and knowing that I am wearing such is an addictive rush. Also, when I receive a compliment on either my outfit as a whole or even part of it, it makes it all worthwhile. Finally, somewhere a member had posted a response about Hunter rain boots. Do not get me wrong, I have the greatest appreciation for knee high rain boots and appreciate their practicality. I, however, would only wear them as a means to keep my feet dry when it is wet outside and to prevent me from destroying a pair of heels by having to navigate around puddles of standing water. Well, sometime ago I saw these and when they went on sale, jumped on getting a pair - style and practicality all in one!

I think trying to define "seriously" is, for me, somewhat tricky. For most of my life, I wore heels "in secret" and thus, did so only when the opportunity presented itself. I would not do so if it was only for 30 minutes or an hour because it was not worth the effort. So, my wearing of heels was sporadic and the frequency of such varied. During this time period, I would only wear heels indoors and venturing out was under the cover darkness late in the evening. Fast forward to November 2023 when I started wearing heels in public. Now, the situation is reversed - I mostly wear heels out in public and will only do so at home during my work day. So, I guess it might be fair to say that for me, it has been since the aforementioned date that I have been "serious" about wearing heels although I have always done so. It is worth noting that my wearing heels "in secret" was not as developed as it is now for obvious reasons. By developed, I mean that in the sense of having a wide variety of choices and matching outfits. Do you shop at Shoebidoo in Utrecht? I have bought several pairs from them but delivery is expensive. I would love nothing more than to arrive at Schiphol, get out my OV-Chipkaart, and get on the NS out there. I have come to believe that when it comes to wearing heels in public, we are our worst enemies. It is so easy to think that when "we" step out in public in a pair of heels, the eyes of the world instantly focus on us and what we are wearing. I am sure that every one of us has felt this way - I know I have. In reality, I do not think a vast majority of people notice or care. The "only solution" to this problem is to get out there and do it. In less than a year, I have gone from being incredibly nervous to not giving a (expletive starting with F) what anyone else thinks about it. Always remember the words of Dr. Seuss: "Those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."

I think that the reason men do not wear tall boots outside of necessity (equestrian, parade uniform, etc.) is due to two reasons. First, a man wearing tall boots simply for the pleasure of doing so (heel height notwithstanding) may make that person appear a bit eccentric. The same could be said for a man (on this side of the Atlantic) wearing a beret or fedora, an ascot, or a cape. All of these may be perfectly fine items to wear at most anytime and, in fact, may be specifically designed for men but given how they may be viewed others, men would not want to wear them. It seems to me that most men are more comfortable in simply putting together an outfit very quickly and without much thought or fanfare rather than incorporating any sort of style into it. There are certainly occasions when this is appropriate, such as when one is running errands or may become sweating or dirty. I tend to think that for most men, however, the greatest effort they will extend in creating some degree of a fashionable/dressy outfit comes when they have to wear a jacket and necktie to some function/event. Second, it is rather clear that society is more concerned with quick comfort than class or elegance. Take a look at photographs of travelers (via airlines) in the 1950s. It is fairly noticeable that both men and women put effort into appearance for traveling. Photographs of crowds from our parents time (at least mine) show men and women dressed in "better" attire even for "routine" gatherings. And now? When you are at an airport, do you observe anyone (other than me) dressed up for the flight? Instead, one is bound to see torn jeans, flip-flops, and other clothing that is probably more appropriate for lounging around at home than being in public. Thus, the lack of any standards has certainly helped create a culture where putting some degree of effort into what is worn in public is no longer important, especially to today's younger folks. I'm sorry, but wearing "jeans" in public that are missing more fabric than that which is actually holding them together means they should be thrown away or more likely, not bought in the first place. Anyways.... I very much enjoy wearing tall boots and will do so in the future, and cannot wait for the arrival of cooler autumn weather to start doing so again. I have progressed to the point where I really do not give a [care] if someone thinks I look awkward, silly, ridiculous, or whatever. If they feel that way, that is their problem, not mine. I tend to think that those individuals who put effort into appearance when such is not required of them are seen as being somewhat eccentric when excessively casual seems to be the accepted norm/approach. For those who are interested, attached are photos of tall boots outfits I have worn to the office or out in public - simple but yet displaying some degree of style

Great to hear!

Replacements? Yikes!!! Have you had any problems wearing heels due to the new joints?

Yeah, the weather here has been brutal this week! It's not even boot season inside! Like you, can not wait for the cooler weather to break out my favorite boots!

Well...I did it. Open toe heels (sandals?) at work. Toe nails painted blue to match the blue espadrilles worn to an art exhibit at SLAM (St. Louis Art Museum) the past weekend. Heels - A.N.A. (Another New Adventure - found on eBay).

I have been thinking about this post for a while and promise to try and keep it on point. When I started wearing heels, the height of the heel was what was important – the higher the better and I always went for 4.5” – 5.” The style of the heel did not matter whether it was a stiletto, block, wedge, or some other form. I loved such high heels because there was a certain irresistible and indescribable feeling of just being able to walk on a heel that I found to be so horribly alluring. Fast forward to November 2023 when I started wearing heels out in public. I started with 4” block heels in order to get comfortable with doing so and to date, have only worn a higher heel out to an event just once. When I started wearing heels to work earlier this year, 3” – 3.5” seemed to be a good start but for me, 4” is the limit for my own personal reasons (do not want to restart the what is/is not work appropriate debate). I have always felt that I wanted that which I was wearing to compliment the heels I chose for the day. I never felt comfortable wearing “guy” clothing with heels and as a result, began wearing feminine clothing with any pair of heels while out in public. To me, and speaking only for myself and not to offend anyone, most heels are alluring but “guy” clothes are boring and drab, thus, the two types of clothing are not compatible for my tastes. As I realized that my style of clothing to wear with my heels was starting to take shape, I began shopping for heels that matched the outfit in terms of color, style, and practicality; heel height became secondary. Thus, the height of the heel started not to matter so much anymore. Not to get off-topic, I will wear “guy” lounging clothes around my place when I have a new part of heels that need a bit of “breaking in” time before they are worn out in public. Soon, I began to feel a sense of comfort and fulfillment in the entire outfit even if I was only wearing kitten heels provided that what I was wearing with them reflected my sense of ‘haute couture.’ I, for example, love the look of tailored wide-leg pants with either a kitten heel or a shorter heeled animal print pump. Such reflects a certain sophisticated and classic elegance, a ‘je na sais quoi’ about it. The summers in my part of the world, however, can be quite unforgiving on some days which wreaks havoc on my feet; heels that fit today will not fit tomorrow if it is hot and humid. Fun and useless fact – one acre of corn stalks releases 2-3k gallons of water vapor (humidity) when they are short of maturity. When the heat takes hold, I opt for my Vans as I have several pairs in many colors which allow me to easily match those shoes to either my pants/skirt or top. Likewise, I have a very comfortable pair of loafers that are probably one of the most comfortable pairs of non-trainers I own. When I go this route of shoe choice, I still feel as great as I do when I am wearing a pair of heels out in public provided that the outfit looks great and my accessories match. Thus, I have come to realize that as much as heels are an expression of whom I am, I can still do so without having to wear 5” stilettos or the like. So, I have to ask if the height of the heel really matters?

Thanks! Can't remember where I bought it off the top of my head...had it made specially for this occasion.

That's awesome that you know of what I speak! It was enjoyable and the park is very nice. I do not think the performances occur year round as I would venture to guess that the bells would be susceptible to cracking in cold weather. Regardless, it is a great way to enjoy the evening. I think that for tonight, I'll head over early, and in my trainers, to stroll around the park before the "concert."

Oh, I do not mind the actual shopping aspect, it's everyone else in the store that I mind. I do not understand why grocery shopping has to be a "family" experience that might involve multiple generations. Likewise, there is no need to leave your shopping cart in the middle of the aisle while one takes 30 minutes to decide on product "A" or "B," when, in fact, the differences may boil down to the color of the packaging. Nor is there a need to argue with the cashier over a difference of price of an item that is just a few cents/shillings. The best part of grocery shopping is when I can do so in heels.

Yes, indeed, wearing white can be very "dangerous" as even the thought of doing so can cause a stain! The "concert" was quite an unusual event...There is a 132ft tall carillon in the middle of the main park in my town and every Friday evening, there is a short "concert" where a keyboardist (for a lack of a better term) will play about eight songs on the bells, all centered around a specific theme. This past Friday featured music geared more towards children, such as, "It's a Small World," the theme from "Beauty and the Beast," and other similar songs. It only lasted for about 30 minutes but when it was finished, I walked around the park for about 20 minutes as the weather was delightful. Sadly, this was followed by me having to engage in my favorite dreaded activity - weekly grocery shopping.

Yep - this has happened to me on many occasions! What I have noticed (as I am sure others have as well) is that overall body temperature greatly affects how certain shoes fit. A recent cool day witnessed shoes that were once a tight fit all of a sudden were seemingly the best fitting pairs of shoes I owned. Then, on a very warm and humid day, the same shoes felt as they were three sizes too small. I find that summer weather wreaks havoc on my feet to the point here I am inclined to put on a pair of athletic "trainers" over heels because I know the former will always "fit" regardless of external temperature.

My outfit for an evening concert in the park!

The "naturally attractive" actually is a throwback to the Peanuts comic as Frieda often spoke of her "naturally curly hair." During my youth, I, too, had naturally curly hair which I hated - it was so hard to keep it under control. So, as my naturally curly hair began to straighten (and fall out) with age, I modified this to mean that I was just "naturally good looking." It's all in jest.

I have found that 3.5" seems to be the best of all worlds for me. I can wear heels higher than that and I have a few pairs that are 4.5+" but as I have started wearing heels out far more frequently (to work and errands after the day is done) that height is the perfect height for being a bit "edgy" but still being professional. As I see it, 3.5 - 4" is the limit for an "office professional" look regardless of shoe style, color, etc. I have found that there are times where I am in 5" heels while working at home but if I will not be wearing those heels "out," what is the purpose of having them? I have come to agree with Mlroseplant that every pair of heels I own should be worn and I want to wear each of them beyond the comfort of my place. So, why have super high heels if they will only be worn when I am sitting around looking pretty (which isn't hard to do as I am naturally attractive! 😁)? Today, for example, I was wearing 3.5" Miz Mooz Soho heels that were exactly what professional and style can be when done "correctly;" high enough to be noticable but low enough to be professional. I do have some heels that are less than 3" and I will wear them when I am in the mood to do so. With these, however, I tend to be much more stylish such as wearing them with wide leg pants or similar.

'Tis True! Living in a farming state automatically gives one the "farmer's tan!" The sun has not necessarily been kind to me over the years. Growing up in the suburban Chicago area with a large yard, a swimming pool, and a neighborhood full of kids my age meant a lot of time outdoors during the summer recess. As a result, I have had several basal cell carcinomas (always benign) removed from my legs and back. In fact, if you look closely at my left thigh just below the hem line, I have one that has to be removed - when I can find time to get to the dermatologist.

Well, I never thought it would happen, but I have started to warm to open toe sandals. I was reluctant because it seemed like such a fuss to do "correctly." Well, without getting into all the nitty-gritty of it, it tried it and I was quite surprised by the outcome! I would be inclined to believe that the maintenance to ensure that the look is desirable is much, but, in the end, worth it for the summer. So, here is my first try at it.

May 18th was Pridefest in my part of the world and the event was ended with my favorite - a Drag Show! IMHO, no better reason to get gussied up for the event. This was my outfit for the night! Heels - Jessica Simpson Nazali pumps! I looked so sensational, I had a woman offer to buy me a drink! Woohoo!

I'll send you a PM with the blog link. Looks like I can't do that.... The boots are Giaro, EU Size 42, from Shoebidoo (in Utrecht, Netherlands). They are not bad to walk in once your feet and legs get warmed up but after about two hours of standing in them, it was time to sit down! PM me if you want the link to my blog where I wrote about them in depth. Thanks! Send me a PM if you would like the link to my blog - I wrote about these boots in more detail.

Generally, no, I wouldn't buy them. Most times, but not always, wedding shoes tend to be a bit too much 'over the top for me.' I agree with Cali, buy and resell.

Man oh man - very, very late comer here to comment on a "resolved" issue, so my points may be utterly moot. My transition from wearing almost entirely covered heels to openly wearing them public was a challenge. Taking inspiration from others in this group, I eventually realized that "if they can do it, so can I," and I did. And since that time, I have not looked back or ever regretted my decision to wear heels out if public. This is not to say that it has always been a smooth road as it hasn't. There have been times of doubt and lacking confidence in new and uncertain circumstances. I have come to learn that the best way to approach this is as other have wrote - having confidence. These are some points I have learned: 1. Select footwear for comfort and occasion. Speaking only for myself, I wear very low heels to work and never, never, never "club heels" to the office. OTK boots will be paired with an appropriate length and styled skirt. 2. Pay attention to grooming. When I am out in heels, I am always well groomed - clean shaven, hair combed, fingernails "cleaned-up," etc. Keep your feet in good shape! Some heels are only designed to be worn for very brief periods of time. Thus, I always have a pair of flats or "street style" trainers nearby should my feet start to scream, "Get us out of here!" When I wear capris, the lower part of my legs are shaved. 3. If this anyone's "Thing," wear clothing and accessories that makes you comfortable as comfort exudes confidence. There are days/times/places where wearing a pair of heels just does not "feel right" for whatever reason. When those occur, as much as I may want to wear heels, I don't. Likewise, some days it might be all feminine clothing but other days it will be a mixture. 4. Be yourself! When you should find a style you like, go with it. I have found both heels and clothing that I love and have started to put my own style together. It took some work to get there such as quite a bit of weight loss, but I am there and I love how it looks. 5. Work towards an event for which you want to wear heels. My wedding anniversary is the most important day of the year, and my wife and I always celebrate it in high style. This year I have a leather skirt for the day (at the very end of October) and although it fits fairly well, I have to lose a few more pounds to make it fit "just right." I have idea of the boots I want to wear with the skirt thus, this gives an incentive to make sure I get there. So there you have it!

First of "Howeveah" took me a moment to figure it out....(reminiscent of Mr. Ronald James Dio - sooooo showing my age!). I had always believed that open shoes, regardless of heel height and style, SHOULD (not could or can) not be worn with either tights (nylons, hose, etc) or unpainted toenails. Likewise, I automatically assumed that toenails should be painted with open toe shoes, especially with pumps worn for a "dressy" occasion or event. Well, yesterday, I noted that my immediate supervisor was wearing a pair of Toms - "Monica" slingback wedges and her toenails was not polished/painted. Thus, this gave me the inspiration I needed to try it for myself. As, I will pick-up some open toe sandals and see how it looks!

WOW! Those heels are fantastic!!!!! Love them!!! (Can you say Envious?) OK - I'm sorry to get up on my soapbox here, but I kind of have to do so... I fail to comprehend this whole 'washroom use must align with birth sex' baloney! In the end, who, other than clueless morons give a flying F*#% about it? I have so many places where the line for women to use the "women's" restroom has been proverbial mile long and if men are not using the stalls in "their" washroom, then let the women do it! What is the big deal about it? As to the point at hand - I personally love the sound and feel of my heels clicking across any solid surface - there is just an indescribable allure to it. If that happens to be in a public men's restroom, then so be it.