Feet And Footwear: A Cultural Encyclopedia -

While today they are largely a symbol of femininity, in 17th-century Europe, they were originally a sign of masculinity and high social status for men.

Throughout history, footwear has been used to communicate who we are. Feet and Footwear: A Cultural Encyclopedia

Feet and footwear : a cultural encyclopedia - Internet Archive While today they are largely a symbol of

These backless slippers were favored by ancient Patricians in Rome. By the 17th century, they became highly adorned public fashion statements for wealthy French women. 2. Footwear, Taboos, and the Law in 17th-century Europe

Footwear choices have often been governed by strict social—and sometimes legal—rules.