Why Do Men Love Women in High Heels?

There is something irretrievably transfiguring about a pair of high heels. From the way they shape posture to their pop culture sensuality, high heels have some sort of magic to reinvent the way a woman appears. But why, exactly, do men, in general, find them so attractive?

High heels change a woman's stance. They give her a stylish curve at the back, bending it slightly and pushing the hips forward, accentuating the natural curves of the body. The change makes legs appear longer and accentuates feminine aspects, like a waist-to-hip ratio—a feature across the board linked with health and fertility in evolutionary psychology. Even men are genetically programmed to respond to such body cues at a subliminal level, indicating good health and sex appeal.

And then there's the effect high heels have on a woman's walk. Her walk is a more deliberate one; her steps are calculated and measured, and every step is one of rhythm and beauty. The walk engages the eye, heightening her posture and poise, a lovely effect. In a quiet room, the unmistakable click of her heels is heard, turning them not only into shoes but into a performance tool that heralds her entrance into any room.

High heels have been culturally associated with glamour, sex appeal, and power. They project an air of sophistication to them, as they are fashion staples on catwalks, red carpets, and fashionistas on television. With men, this creates the impression that if a woman is in heels, she's sensual and powerful. And, naturally, heels are also associated with vulnerability—try going down stairs in them.—so there's this amazing tension between power and fragility. Depending on how they're worn and carried, this can swing either way towards power or vulnerability, so they're a very versatile accessory.

High heels don't simply add an inch; they alter the look of a woman and the manner in which she moves, heightening physical and psychological signals of femininity. Not necessarily to everyone's taste, maybe, but their ability to elevate an outfit—and an attitude—is undeniable. The allure of men and heels is perhaps some mix of biology, psychology, and cultural symbolism, but this much is certain: high heels send a signal that cannot be ignored.