The Geneology of Heels

Heels, as we know them today, come in many forms.  You can get a chunky heel, stiletto heel, a classic pump, strappy, peep toe, open toe, pointed toe or round and varying heights (although sky high heels seem to be the trend currently).

Let us take a look back starting in the present and going back to the 50's to see how heels have evolved.

2010
Alexander McQueen ten inch heels.

The 90's - This is when the chunky heel was wildly popular.  You can actually start to see a bit of a comeback of this style now.

Example: daniblack strappy sandal

The 80's - In the 80's the classic power pump was the heel of choice.  With a mid height heel, closed, slightly rounded toe and a huge selection of colors to choose from.

Example: Charles Jourdan beige leather pumps.

The 70's - The classic platform as we know it today.  Sky high and often in other textiles such as cork or pvc.

Example: Vintage platforms, unknown designer.

The 60's - Pre-platform we had metallic heels at a mid and low heel height.


Example: Silver metallic buckle platform heels, After Five by Sophia.

The 50's - The basic pumps with a low to mid heel length was popular at this time.  Mostly closed toe with bow detailing.

Example: Babydoll heels with studded bow, designer unknown.