Louis XIV Popularized Male Heels

During the 17th century, French king Louis XIV and other wealthy European men wore high heels to display their elite status. As the fashion spread, aristocrats ordered increasingly tall heels to distinguish themselves from lower social classes. According to footwear historian Klaus Carl, some European authorities eventually limited heels to 1/2 inch for commoners, 1 inch for the bourgeoisie, 1 1/2 inches for knights, 2 inches for nobles, and 2 1/2 inches for princes. By the 18th century, men's heels had become thick and practical, while women's heels grew thinner and more decorative.

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