Louis XIV

Portrait of Louis XIV was painted in 1701 by the French painter Hyacinthe Rigaud after being commissioned by the king who wanted to satisfy the desire of his grandson, Philip V, for a portrait of him. Louis XIV ordered Rigaud to make a copy of the painting, which he gave to Philip. He kept the original one at Versailles. This portrait has become the "official portrait" of the most famous king in French history. But we have gathered here to discuss ... shoes. Louis XIV was perhaps the most famous wearer of heels in history. Under Louis’s rule, the higher and redder the heel, the more powerful the wearer. In 1670, the king passed an edict that stated that only nobility could wear heels. Also, if you look at this portrait, we spot the red heel. Of course, it was symbolic: it showed that its wearer was rich enough not to dirty his shoes and that he was powerful enough to crush his enemies underfoot. The Sun King allowed only those in his favor to wear red heels. 

Who would have known? I have one comment though. I'm sure that Louis XIV would LOVE to wear our artsy socks with these amazing heels!  Check them in our Shop!  :)

P.S. There were more men in history wearing heels; lucky for us they were depicted in art!