OUR FASCINATING LOVE AFFAIR WITH SHOES: THREE INTRIGUING BENEFITS
Gianvitto Rossi
Opening Ceremony
Manolo Blahnik
Loeffler Randall
“The fact is, sometimes it’s hard to walk in a single woman’s shoes. That’s why we need really special ones now and then- to make the walk a little more fun. ”
Stuart Weitzman
Gucci
The love affair between woman and shoe is therapeutic, empowering, and transforming all at once. Shoe Crush Week here at the Joy of J has led us to some fascinating conclusions.
1. Love for shoes is a universal language. When I posted Manolo hangisila lace pumps to Instagram, the adoration and insight was overwhelming. @dressaholicstyle referenced the scientific evidence of a woman’s heartbeat increasing when she finds beautiful shoes while @sashdujourblog discussed the art of a heel- elongating the leg and slimming the calf. Many revealed how powerful and beautiful this one accessory could make her feel.
Even though these women and I have never met face to face, we connected because of our love of shoes.
2. The history of shoes and empowerment go hand in hand. Historically speaking, our footwear fetish began in the Upper Paleothic period, 40,000 years ago with a leather flat resembling a moccasin. Through the ages wooden, silk and leather shoes were used to establish class, empowerment and authority. However, following the woman’s suffrage movement, the entrance of women in the workplace established the presence of the power heel.
This shoe was popularized as a symbol of power by the new emergence of working women who replaced men during the world wars. So when we step into our power heels today, we are not just stepping into our own power- we are stepping into a legacy of women who empowered themselves in working for equal rights. Throughout our history, heels have enabled us to stand taller, strut bolder and inspired us to change the world.
3. Our shoes are our reflection. How do you feel? How do you need to feel? Where are you going? What do you need to accomplish? All of these questions can be answered through your shoes. If you feel like crap and need to change your mood, you may need to put on some Gianvitto Rossi open toe stilettos. If you’re too tired for heels but need a shot of fun in your outfit, these amazing Gucci Ace Lurex Jacquard Sneakers may be the answer to your prayers. Shoes have the ability to not only fit our emotional/spiritual state but to improve it. Neurobiologists have confirmed that an increase of dopamine (a chemical in our brain that controls pleasure) from buying shoes is a real thing! So, remember whatever you are facing, there is a shoe to help you overcome the obstacle.
So, let us celebrate and indulge in the shoe. The ultimate marriage of art and functionality. Through a variety of materials, color, and designs, we are able to heal ourselves, express our feelings and get stuff handled! Shoes are JOY!