NEW: Standing Tall: The Curious History of Men (and Women) in Heels

On May 27th, we present : "Standing Tall: The Curious History of Men (and Women) in Heels" by Elizabeth Semmelhack.

High heels might seem like a modern fashion statement—but their story is far stranger (and more surprising) than you’d expect.

In this lecture, Elizabeth Semmelhack explores how heels have been worn by everyone from kings and cowboys to pin-ups and fashion icons—and how they’ve long been tied to power, status, and desire. So how did this seemingly impractical design become so culturally significant?

Tracing influences from global exploration to Enlightenment philosophy, and from eugenics to erotica, this lecture reveals how the high heel evolved into one of fashion’s most enduring—and symbolic—objects. Along the way, you’ll see how something as simple as a shoe can reflect shifting ideas about gender, identity, and authority across centuries.

Expect a fascinating blend of history, culture, and unexpected twists that will completely change how you think about what’s on your feet.

💡 About the incredible Elizabeth Semmelhack

Elizabeth Semmelhack is the Director and Senior Curator of the Bata Shoe Museum, where her work explores the intersection of fashion, culture, and economics. She is also an Adjunct Professor at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Since joining the Bata Shoe Museum museum in 2000, she has curated over 30 exhibitions and authored 14 books and catalogues, along with numerous articles and essays. Her work on the history of heels includes Standing Tall: The Curious History of Men in Heels, On a Pedestal, and Heights of Fashion. She is also widely featured in major media outlets, including The New York Times and Vogue.

📅 Date: May 27, 2026
🕡 Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM
📍 Location: Near Richmond and Spadina, Downtown Toronto. The exact location will be emailed to you via the email you use while purchasing the ticket.
🎤 Speaker: Elizabeth Semmelhack

🎟 Seats are limited!

❗️Please note: the location in this eventbrite page is NOT the exact location, only indicates the general area. The exact location will be emailed to you via the email you use while purchasing the ticket. Keep an eye out in your inbox or spam folder a couple weeks before the event as well.

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