Dress Code 23: The Power of Shoes Explores Footwear's Cultural and Political Significance

The article 'Dress Code 23. Il potere delle scarpe' by Bianca Terracciano and Anita Romanello, published on March 28, 2026, examines the cultural and political dimensions of footwear. The piece analyzes how shoes represent more than mere foot coverings, serving as symbols of aggression, control, and social belonging. The authors trace the Latin etymology of 'calzatura' to 'calx' (heel), exploring Italian idioms that use heel-related expressions to convey concepts like poor judgment, surprise attacks, and restricted freedom. The article presents footwear as a reflection of global political dynamics, suggesting that contemporary political movements often manifest through forceful, kicking motions rather than graceful steps.