A high heeled shoe is the ultimate symbol of femininity. No other accessory throughout history has been so reviled or revered by both men and women, alike.

Today, for many who wear them, high heels lend themselves not only a literal increase in physical stature but to the symbolism of power and authority. That has not always been the case.

In the 1600s, the Puritan colonists of Massachusetts passed a law banning women from wearing high heels (presumably for the purpose of seducing men) or they would be subjected to a trial on the suspicion of witchcraft. That's one powerful shoe.

The fashionability of heels would come in and out of style over the course of the next few centuries, depending greatly on the political and economic climate of any given time.

In the 1960s, the feminist movement resulted in a backlash against the heel, many deeming them crippling and oppressive, both literally and figuratively.

Luckily for all of us who are more stylistically inclined, this attitude once again shifted in the '80s when the idea that fashion was more of a source and statement of pleasure, confidence and empowerment for women than it was a tool of oppression.

Inarguably, it was with this attitude of confidence that Elaine Honig of Honig wines founded Wine, Women & Shoes 21 years ago. Since its inception, Wine, Women & Shoes has grown to a series of annual nationwide events that have collectively raised over $9 million for women's and children's charities.

It is a synergistic union for Tulsa's Wine, Women & Shoes to be held for the 6th consecutive year in order to celebrate and benefit the YWCA Tulsa.

For more than 90 years, our local YWCA has worked to empower women, eliminate racism and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. The YWCA Tulsa serves over 20,000 people each year through counseling services, fitness programs, top quality early learning centers, immigrant and refugee services and racial justice initiatives.

In 2010, Wine, Women & Shoes enjoyed record breaking support with 300 in attendance at the Patron Party and 500 attending the main event the following Saturday. Attendance is expected to be even greater this year thanks to their team of committed volunteers and loyal attendees.

"This is our 6th year hosting Wine, Women & Shoes, and it has gotten bigger every year." said Meredith McDaris, director of resource development for the YWCA. "I think the key to our success has been having really creative and energetic people involved who are passionate about not only putting on a fabulous event, but furthering the mission of the YWCA.

"Because there is a greater purpose for the event, people tend to go above and beyond in their creativity and generosity. Once people attend, they realize how fun and unique the event is, and they tell all of their friends who then want to come next year," she said.

The two day event will kick off with a patron-only fashion and wine event the evening of Friday, March 2. Shopping will be a possibility throughout the evening thanks to upscale retailers. Thirteen vintners from around the country pour their best wines while guests sample an assortment of hors d'oeuvres. The evening will end with a fashion show and a live auction.

The Signature Event follows on Saturday, March 3 from 11:30am--3pm where attendees will enjoy a day of shopping, wine tasting, lunch and a fashion show featuring some of Tulsa's most empowered women. Multiple retailers will have shoes and accessories available for purchase with a percentage of the proceeds benefitting the YWCA: Artemis Boots, Diana Kelly, Falchi Handbags, Hadleighs of Dallas, Lisa Mackey Jewelry, Nihsima Jewelry, On a Whim, Black Optical, Cunningham Fine Jewelry, J. Cole Shoes, Sole Mates Shoe Boutique, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

There are some note-worthy changes this year that will be sure to take the fashion factor up a knotch.

This year event planner Talmadge Powell has been brought on board to impart his eye for elegance on the blank canvas that is the Tulsa Convention Center. "Talmadge has really taken the event to a new level as far as the look, feel and scope," McDaris said.

Also new this year is the addition of the Power Heels fundraising committee, headed up by Sharon King Davis. Power Heels members have each committed to raising $5000 for the cause. For Davis's daughter, Kasey Davis, joining the Power Heels team was a no brainer. "This has been a great opportunity for meeting some great new women, getting involved in the community, making some great memories, and really learning more about what the YWCA does for Tulsa," Davis said.

The funds raised through Power Heels will go towards supporting primarily three programs, one of them being a new program called "On Your Own." "This will be a program that gives knowledge to women that are going to be on their own due to divorce, death, etc. It will encompass everything from attorney questions, tax information, childcare info and more," Davis said.

The funds will also contribute to "Healthy and Whole," a fitness program that aids women who are recovering from alcohol and drug abuse and "Girls on the Run," which is a continuing program to help disadvantaged girls get healthy, physically and mentally.

Joanna Blackstock, also a Power Heels member, is happy to contribute her time and her talents by volunteering in order to support these three initiatives. "The YWCA does a great job at identifying very worthwhile causes and needs where support is lacking and then helping lend much needed support. It's a great example of women helping women and this cause impacts our community directly."

The YWCA Tulsa and Wine, Women & Shoes work together so that women everywhere may walk tall. Tickets for the individual luncheon are $100. To purchase tickets or for additional information visit ywcatulsa.org or call 918-587-2100.

Send all comments and feedback regarding Fashion to natchley@urbantulsa.com.

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