Stepping into the Shoes of Exotic Dancers

Entertainment, distractions, media, whatever you call it, is something all of us indulge in, even choosing to read a book or watch a movie instead of doing our work or taking care of responsibilities. Another form of entertainment, one which has been around for centuries, is exotic dancing. Even cavemen and women entertained themselves through exotic dancing, particularly as a way of highlighting celebrations. During the Roman and Greek empires, priestesses performed at temples as part of rituals (Felicia, 2022).

Nowadays, outside of performances, people are incorporating the techniques of specific exotic dances into their fitness routines. These routines are often taught in exotic fitness classes, which typically include acrobatics, gymnastics, and dance, often incorporating the use of a pole. In addition to the physical techniques used, there are a few similarities to actual exotic dancing. Most exotic fitness classes have modest dress requirements, such as bare feet, shorts, full-length shirts, and bare faces, in comparison to the lavish and glitzy look of typical exotic dancing. One noticeably absent aspect of the fashion is the pleaser-style heels (Speed, 2023).

The pleaser-esque heel, many of us have come to love, while others hate, has a fascinating history. Known initially as chopines in 15th-century Venice, they were worn as a symbol of status by the upper class. Throughout the early 1900s, old Hollywood celebrities had feet adorned with the high platform stilettos. Then in the 70s, famous musicians such as David Bowie and Elton John could also be seen rocking the tall heel (Lodi, 2021).

Despite the love and success of many celebrities who have worn these heels, they still carry a stigma of being “trashy.” However, for those who wear them, the experience is quite different. The heels, they say, make them feel powerful, with their bodies elongated and the commanding clack of the stiletto as they walk, instilling a sense of confidence and power (Lodi, 2021).

Personally, I have a love-hate relationship with heels. I may not be the most graceful when I wear them, but I cannot deny their appeal. They make me feel strong and confident, and the added advantage of being the one looking down in conversations is a bonus. Pleasers, with their unique style, seem like a heel I would love to add to my collection, but I will need to learn how to walk in them. What about you? Would you dare to wear a pair?

Editor: Sydney Annis

Graphic: Sanjana Karanth