Footwear

Footwear refers to garments worn on the feet, for fashion, protection against the environment, and adornment. Cultures have different customs regarding footwear which include not using any in some situations.

Socks and other hosiery are typically worn between the feet and other footwear, less often with sandals or flip flops (thongs).

Durable shoes are a relatively recent invention, though many ancient civilizations wore ornamental footwear. Many ancient civilizations saw no need for footwear. The Romans saw clothing and footwear as signs of power and status in society, and most Romans wore footwear, while slaves and peasants remained barefoot. The Middle Ages saw the rise of high-heeled shoes, also associated with power, and the desire to look larger than life, and artwork from that period often depicts bare feet as a symbol of poverty. Bare feet are also seen as a sign of humility and respect, and adherents of many religions worship or mourn while barefoot, or remove their shoes as a sign of respect towards someone of higher standing.