In a surprising turn of events, Barbie is shaking up the fashion world by ditching her signature high heels for more comfortable footwear. According to a report from May 2025, real-life fashionistas are following suit and opting for cozier kicks over sky-high stilettos. The shift is drastic, but it’s definitely fantastic, as Monash University researchers have discovered.
Who is leading this revolution, you may ask? Well, none other than the iconic Barbie herself. Over the past 65 years, researchers have observed a decline in Barbie’s foot arch, which has had a direct impact on the popularity of high-heeled shoes. From her early days in the 1960s, where all Barbies were made to stand on their tippy toes, to the more recent 2020s where only 40% sport the elevated look, Barbie’s evolving footwear choices reflect broader societal changes.
Not really sure why this matters, but specialists at Monash University used a classification system called “FEET” to track the changes in Barbie’s feet. They found that her once-prominent foot arch has softened over the years, moving away from the equinus foot posture to a more flat-footed stance. This shift can be attributed to Barbie’s expanding resume, which now includes roles such as an astronaut, surgeon, firefighter, and scientist. As Barbie adapted to different professions, her footwear choices became more practical and comfortable, mirroring the changing preferences of women in the workforce.
Maybe it’s just me, but it’s fascinating to see how Barbie’s influence extends beyond the toy aisle and into the real world. Retailers like Kurt Geiger have noticed a decline in high heel sales, with more women prioritizing comfort and practicality over fashion. Even haute fashion houses like Alaïa are embracing flats, making them a staple on the runway and in celebrity wardrobes. Monash researchers believe that Barbie’s impact on footwear choices is undeniable, as women everywhere are following her lead and opting for shoes that allow them to work, play, and move freely.
