From flip flops, to Nikes, to Steve Madden heels, shoes can say a lot about a person. Especially women. Footwear often defines a personality and can tell strangers what one’s interests, views, and dislikes are.
A study in June 2012 from the University of Kansas tested to see if shoes do define a personality. College students were given a picture of a shoe and were able to say the owner’s age, gender and income, as well as some character traits. Reporting on the study, abcnews.com found that people who wear loud colorful sneakers are often more emotionally stable and have more confidence in themselves. Those who wear high-top Chuck Taylor’s tend to be more willing to bend the rules, depending on the color. The study also said dull colored high-top wearers are often more reclusive and to themselves. Those who wear new and expensive shoes tend to strive for success more than those with worn down older footwear.
The study was based upon people 19 and older. But despite the age difference, shoes still hint personality at Sion. Although it can be hard to show true colors through shoes at Sion, shoes must be a neutral shade with a back and hard sole, it can still be done. Different styles of shoes can show a girl’s personality type as well as her interests.
“Girls who wear Sperry’s are usually preppy and more girly, while girls who wear tennis shoes are more sporty,” junior Amanda Malecki said.
People notice shoes. Shoes are the only item that Sion girls have a choice choosing and demonstrating personal style. It’s a way to define personality while wearing a uniform.
“I sometimes base someone’s personality just off what shoes they’re wearing,” sophomore Meredith Sanders said. “Shoes say a lot about a person. They can say who you truly are.”
Shannon Lenhart, a shoe sales representative at Nordstrom, agreed that shoes do say a lot about a woman. She said that it is possible for a woman to define herself entirely in her shoes, depending on her personality. Lenhart said shoes are always a way to express yourself.
“Shoes are something that will always fit us. A woman can wear any top but the shoes add a pop and a taste of her style,” Lenhart said. “Shoes are an accessory that show personality and can be a little spontaneous.”