High Heels in US Schools: Reality vs TV Glamor

Do girls wear high heels in US schools, or is this just a TV thing? In reality, the presence of high heels in US school environments is not as common as you might imagine from television shows and movies. Most schools have dress codes that emphasize comfort and practicality over fashion.

Common School Attire

In the United States, the typical school attire for girls is much more aligned with comfort and functionality than with high heels. Footwear like sneakers or flat shoes are the norm. At My High School, for example, we had a uniform requiring black and simple footwear, which could include sneakers or similar styles like Chucks or Docs.

TV Shows and Movies

Television and movies often glamorize the wearing of high heels among students, portraying them as a common and necessary part of school life. However, in reality, many schools prioritize safety and practicality. This is especially true for younger students, where comfort is a primary concern.

Dress Codes and Practices

The situation can vary greatly depending on the school. Some schools have strict dress codes that explicitly prohibit high heels, while others may allow them in limited cases. Even when not officially banned, many girls may choose not to wear high heels due to practical reasons. Full-time high heel wear is not something most girls are used to, and it's not the attire one wears when sitting in a classroom for hours.

Specific Examples and Cases

There are instances where certain students, like my girlfriend in high school whose mother was a fashion model, have found ways to incorporate high heels into their lifestyle. The key factor was her mother's emphasis on back alignment through the use of high heels. While the school initially questioned the safety of high heels, a test period showed no issues. Teachers, however, complained about the difficulty of tapping on stone floors, but this issue was easily resolved through adjustments.

In the 90s, the situation was slightly different. Girls rarely wore heels on a daily basis. High heels were mainly worn for events like homecoming or prom, and occasionally for Halloween or when wearing granny boots with heels.

Overall, while high heels may be part of everyday life for some girls in social settings and special events, their presence in US schools remains limited. The focus remains on comfort and practicality, both for the safety of the students and to ensure they can focus on their studies and daily activities without worrying about footwear.