High heels are often viewed as fashionable, but they can also be seen as devices of torture. In the U.K., it’s still permissible for employers to mandate that women wear heels at work. Yes, you heard that right—employees can be compelled to shove their feet into uncomfortable footwear simply because it aligns with their employer’s aesthetic preferences.
A recent experiment conducted by a fashion magazine had a group of men in an office wear high heels for an entire workday, and the results were far from pleasant. Spoiler alert: they didn’t fare well. It’s important to note that simply being a woman doesn’t magically make it easier to navigate through a day in heels. The expectation that only women should endure this discomfort is baffling, especially considering that high-heeled shoes were originally a male fashion statement.
As documented by Mental Floss, the trend of high heels dates back to 1599, when a Persian shah’s diplomatic mission to Europe sparked interest in Persian fashion. Aristocrats were drawn to these elevated shoes as symbols of masculinity and status. The height of the heel conveyed a message about social class: the higher the heel, the less walking the wearer presumably had to do.
In the U.K., employers can dismiss employees who do not meet “reasonable” dress code standards, as explained by employment law firm Thompsons. They can even create different dress codes for men and women, provided there is an “equivalent level of smartness.” But what about an equivalent level of comfort?
While some argue that high heels enhance a woman’s appearance, those who have spent a full workday in pointy shoes will likely describe it as torturous. The body can adapt to discomfort over time, but that doesn’t negate the potential harm. Studies have shown that high heels can shorten muscle fibers and stiffen the Achilles tendon, putting excessive pressure on knees and limiting ankle flexibility. The strain increases with the height of the heel: a one-inch heel adds 22% more pressure to the ball of the foot, while a three-inch heel spikes that figure to 76%.
It’s essential to recognize that many women choose to wear heels for their own reasons, and that’s perfectly fine. However, when these choices become societal expectations, it crosses a line. The pain women endure can distract from their work and overall well-being. A recent viral image of a waitress with bloody feet after being forced to wear heels highlights the severity of this issue. It took a social media uproar for her employer to reconsider its outdated policy.
While it may be amusing to watch men clumsily navigate their day in heels, the reality for many women subjected to these expectations is not so lighthearted. For further insights on related topics, check out this engaging post on high heels and workplace expectations. If you’re in need of at-home insemination supplies, Make a Mom offers reliable kits. Additionally, for anyone interested in pregnancy resources, March of Dimes provides excellent information.
In summary, the expectation that women should wear high heels at work is outdated and harmful. The discomfort and pain that often accompany these shoes can negatively impact productivity and well-being. It’s time to rethink these societal norms and prioritize comfort over superficial standards.
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