Sir, – I do not think there is any other form of western attire that causes more damage to a woman’s physiological wellbeing than that high heels, from chronic back pain to muscle spasms.
That some women choose to wear heels to work is their own prerogative, but that they should be forced to is another matter. – Your, etc,
JULIEANNE PRENDIVILLE,
Bray,
Co Wicklow.
Sir, – Men are not forced to walk around in impractical footwear and neither should women. No employer should enforce on anyone the impracticality of wearing high heels. Flat shoes are arguably far more professional, practical, and free from being an object used to sexualise women. Brogues are my personal choice of formal footwear, and any employer who thinks that is unacceptable should think again. A tie does not impede one’s ability to walk and is far from comparable.
No offence to those who choose to wear high heels, but for this type of footwear to form part of a “professional” dress code is merely code for the sexualisation and objectification of women. – Yours, etc,
REBEKAH REVILLE JOY,
Barnet,
London.
Sir, – I live in Canada and there have been several controversies here recently about high heels at work and a sexualised dress code for women. High heels cause long-term damage to women’s feet and for many women are uncomfortable to wear for any length of time. Why are they necessary in an office setting? Both men and women should have a similar dress code, with high heels only for meeting important clients. – Yours, etc,
PAT STARK,
Deltas,
British Columbia.
Sir, – Thank heavens that I work in the tech industry, where shoes of any sort, high heels or otherwise, are regarded not just as optional but as a veritable impediment to productivity and team spirit.
Shoes belong in one place – on the tarmac of the running track. – Yours, etc,
ULTAN Ó BROIN,
San Francisco.