Shaunette Jones, Staff Reporter

From top: Yves Saint Laurent turquoise grosgrain ankle-strap sandal; Rodolphe Menudier lavender patent mule; Isaac Mizrahi yellow patent mule; Manolo Blahnik green linen stiletto; and Isaac Mizrahi pink suede ankle-strap sandal. - MCT

Correction/Clarification

In the article, ‘Heel! Down, boy!’, published on C1 and C3 of Saturday’s Gleaner, it was stated that placenta previa can result from wearing stilettos/high heels. This is incorrect. Placenta previa can be worsened by the wearing of high heels. We regret the error.

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They're pointed, perhaps five inches tall and imbue some women with unflappable confidence - even cockiness to boot. From glammed-up working girls to office femmes fatale, stilettos have transformed introverts into go-getters and prudes into hot tamales.

Arissa Cummings, communication specialist, who has pairs aplenty of high-heeled shoes, says they are a unique power tool.

"I love stilettos in any form - boots, pumps, slingbacks, etc. - so much so that when I sprained my ankle a few years ago (wearing flat shoes, imagine that), I was distressed at the possibility of never being able to slide my sleek sole into another pair," said the 29-year-old.

For her, stilettos are a major factor in amplifying her femininity.

"That unmistakable click - when tips meet tiles - is a rhythmic pulsation of confidence coming through my every stride.

"It gives me a more commanding and, of course, desirable sway. A well-fitted pair of heels defines the length and muscle tone of my legs, while adding allure to my 5ft 5in stature."

She is just one of many women who have developed a love affair with 'stilts', some using its phallic power to make beaus go gaga and evoke drools and leers from passers-by.

History

Named after the stiletto daggers used in World Wars I and II, these thin, high-tapering heels have been clicking against sidewalks since the late 1900s.

And oh how this weapon, in varying colours and styles, has penetrated many a man's heart. Carlton Williams, clerical officer, says heels hit the spot for him.

"Stilettos are very appealing. I prefer the ones with the pointy toes (as opposed to peep-toes).

"They enhance defined calves and shapely legs, add shape to the not-so-shapely legs, and perk up the butt. I think they are the way to go," Williams told Saturday Life.

Combining high heels and short shorts sends him over the edge, he added.

"If she has the walk and the bag to add to it, then it can be quite sexy," said André McKenzie, clerical assistant. "If she's dressed in a corporate suit, it just looks so darn attractive."

Cummings says the men are spot on in their assessment.

"The added height certainly puts me on a more even physical footing with my male counterparts, and increases my sensual appeal in more romantic settings."

While Hugh Bowman, librarian, agrees that heels add appeal, he explains that some women overdo it.

"A lot of women dress for other women, and many sport the heels when they're not even necessary. I don't have a special preference for stilettos. I think they're nice for the right occasion."

But, Janneth Mornan-Green, a communications consultant in her late 40s, makes it clear that high heels are a cinch for women who are regular hot steppers.

"I have no problem wearing heels. I think they're absolutely fabulous and very sexy," said Mornan-Green. "They complete my suits and look very stunning with pencil skirts. In my opinion, you're not dressed until you have on a pair of those!"

* Real name withheld.

shaunette.jones@gleanerjm.com

GIRL GAB

Diandra Rowe

I really like wearing stilettos, especially for dress-up occasions. It is a fact that stilettos complement an outfit better than flats do. I also wear them to make up for my (lack of) height because I'm very short and my friends tend to use me as an armrest at times.

Tracy-Ann Mullings

I adore stilettos. I don't wear them often but, when I do, they not only give me extra inches but they raise the bar in so many ways for my attitude, posture, confidence and femininity.

Geordine Henry

Not really a fan of stilettos 'cause they limit your movement at any occasion and can also be very uncomfortable. Stilettos may give a sassy look but it's possible to look sassy and comfortable without them.

Patrice Harrison

My main reason for wearing stiletto heels is for the improvement of appearance. It makes me look graceful, elegant, glamorous, sexy and beautiful. When I'm in stilettos, I sparkle and shine every step of the way. Stilettos bring out style, sophistication and great-looking, long, shapely legs. They bring instant drama to any outfit.