History of Heels

From Ancient Origins to Modern Runways

High heels are one of fashion's most enduring symbols but their story stretches far beyond the modern stiletto. From Persian horsemen to Parisian courts to today's red-carpet runways, the heel has carried power, beauty, and meaning across centuries.

Ancient Beginnings

The earliest recorded heels date back to 10th-century Persia, where cavalry soldiers wore heeled boots to keep their feet locked in stirrups during battle. By the 16th century, these functional riding heels had made their way to Europe, carried along trade routes and adopted by the nobility as a mark of status and military prestige.

The Rise of the Courtly Heel

Louis XIV of France was perhaps history's most famous heel enthusiast. Standing at 5'4", he commissioned sky-high heels — often red-soled — to elevate both his literal stature and his political authority. His court followed suit, and heels became the ultimate symbol of aristocratic power across Europe. Interestingly, both men and women wore heels during this era; it wasn't until the 18th century that heels became gendered, with men gradually abandoning them as women continued to wear them.

The 19th & 20th Century Revolution

The invention of the sewing machine in the mid-1800s made shoe production faster and more refined. The stiletto heel — named after the narrow Italian dagger — emerged in the 1950s thanks to innovations in steel rod technology, pioneered by designers like Roger Vivier. Icons like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn cemented the stiletto as the ultimate symbol of feminine elegance.

The decades that followed brought endless reinventions: the chunky platform heels of the 1970s, the power pumps of the 1980s boardroom, and the architectural statement heels of the 2000s.

Heels Today: Craftsmanship Meets Character

Modern heels are a celebration of both artistry and individuality. At Mulan, we design heels that honour this rich heritage — where every silhouette tells a story. Whether you're drawn to the refined elegance of a slim stiletto or the confident presence of a block heel, our Heels Collection is crafted for women who wear their history with pride..

The Heel as a Cultural Symbol

Beyond fashion, heels have always carried cultural weight. They've been tools of empowerment, targets of feminist debate, and canvases for artistic expression. Today, wearing heels is a personal choice — one that connects you to centuries of craft, culture, and confidence.

From Persia to Paris to your wardrobe, the heel's journey is far from over. It evolves with every woman who slips one on.