The High Heel Index: How Economy Shapes Fashion

Fashion often mirrors the state of society, and one of the most curious examples is the so called "High Heel Index." The idea is simple: the height of women's heels tends to rise during economic downturns and fall when prosperity returns. While it may sound whimsical, this theory reflects a deeper connection between consumer behavior, mood, and style.

The concept builds on the "Hemline Index" of the 1920s, when economist George Taylor suggested that skirt lengths shortened during economic booms and lengthened in recessions. Over time, analysts extended this observation to footwear. Trevor Davis, a former consumer products expert at IBM, explored the correlation between heel heights and economic indicators, noticing that when times are tough, consumers often reach for higher, more dramatic heels. These choices can be interpreted as a form of escapism, a small indulgence amid financial uncertainty.

History offers examples. During the Great Depression, high heeled pumps and platforms became popular, allowing women to project elegance even in lean years. The 1970s oil crisis brought a surge in platform shoes, while in the early 2000s, kitten heels dominated during the dot com bubble's optimism. Conversely, as crises persisted, practicality and comfort returned to the forefront, with flatter shoes gaining traction. The 2008 financial crisis followed a similar pattern: heel heights peaked in the early stages, then gradually fell as the economy stabilized.

Today, the High Heel Index still offers insight, though trends have shifted. Comfort-driven footwear like ballet flats, loafers, and low block heels are increasingly popular, reflecting a combination of economic caution and lifestyle changes. The index may not predict stock markets, but it underscores a compelling idea: fashion reacts to how people feel about their future. Even the smallest choices, how high a heel rises, can reveal collective mood and priorities.

In the end, the High Heel Index reminds us that fashion is never just about aesthetics. It's a mirror of society, a subtle barometer of confidence, and sometimes, the quietest way to signal hope or resilience through style. And while economists debate markets, the rest of us can at least enjoy a little extra lift in our shoes.