In the latest fashion trend, “Meels”, the men’s high heels we called. The men aren’t only wearing regular shoes anymore; they’re also wearing heels. Many males are seen striding about in high heels throughout Europe’s fashion cities. With our “Meels” guide, learn more about high heels for men.
Table of Contents
What is the “Meels”?
“Meels” are high heels for men that the heels to make the wearer appear taller, or “elevate” them as the name suggests.
Unlike regular shoes, the component of “Meels” that increases the wearer’s height is inside or outside the shoe, hiding it from observers or showing everyone.
“Meels” in the 21st century
Despite the fact that men in heels had become an outmoded fashion trend in the eighteenth century, statistics reveal that men’s high heels were back in business in 2017 and sales began to soar. These figures led fashion experts to identify men’s heel shoes as an emerging fashion rage.
Men who wear heels have profound historical roots. It has been a symbol of authority and manliness for centuries.
In the early 10th century, when horses and cattle carts were the only means of conveyance and a significant component of military training, heels were an official component of horse riding equipment and served practical purposes. These heeled shoes aided in maintaining foot stability in stirrups and provided balance during the ride.
After the European Persian military alliance against the Ottomans, it was the 16th century. As a sign of masculinity and authority, the affluent men of Europe began to associate high heels with the Persian cavalry force.
The 21st century has seen the return of this historical pattern for all the correct reasons. From the men on the street who have exclusive taste in fashion to the celebrities strolling the red carpet at the Met Gala, everyone has an exclusive taste in fashion. Everyone is obsessed with this new fashion trend.
Who invented men’s high heels?
In the history of high heel shoes (Meels: A new noun in 21st century), there is no specific individual who could be attributed with their invention. To gain a greater understanding of its invention, we must examine the cultures and civilizations credited with being the first to use high heels for men, namely the Persians, Greeks, and Romans.
- Persian Heels
The earliest evidence of men donning heels was discovered in Persia during the reign of Shah Abbas. That was eventually adopted by the inhabitants of western Europe.
Ancient Persian heels were made of shagreen (a form of horse leather) and were coloured with plant-based pigments. People from a higher social class adorned themselves with embroidery and other embellishments to enhance their aesthetic appeal.
- Greek Heels
Around 200 B.C., Greek heels or kothorni were devised as a part of the theatre costume. These men’s platform heels with a heel height of 8 to 10 centimetres were originally carved from 8-10 cm of cork to give significant characters in a theatrical production an elevated edge.
Women were not permitted to participate in performing arts at the time, so the cast of plays consisted primarily of males wearing high heels and skirts in and out of the theatre.
- Roman Heels
Roman heel design was influenced by the ancient bushkin boots (mid-calf leather or cloth boots for males) and were primarily worn by prostitutes in the country to express their identity and profession.
These shoes had the same design as modern gladiator sandals. According to conventional belief, Greek, Egyptian, and Roman sex workers advertised their services by stamping the sand wherever they went with the imprints of their heels.
Conclusion
Men’s high heels are a fashion trend deep-rooted in history. “Meels” is a modern-day trend. From big brands to celebrities, everyone is head over heels in this new rage.