Women 12 times more likely than men to suffer for fashion

THE time when corsets were worn as everyday wear may be long gone but women are still suffering for fashion, a study suggests.

Researchers found that they are up to 12 times more likely than men to wear uncomfortable shoes.

They are also significantly more willing to wear clothing that leaves welts on their skin, makes them lose focus, or even prevents them from taking a deep breath.

Women were also significantly more likely to wear items that distracted them, required ongoing monitoring and adjusting throughout the day. Study author Renee Engeln, a professor of psychology at Northwestern University in the US, said: ‘I think there are trade-offs. At times, uncomfortable clothing could make a woman be perceived as more attractive, professional or powerful.

‘It can be helpful to be perceived this way in the workplace. But if your clothing limits your ability to move, breathe, or focus, that’s a high cost to pay just to be perceived as more attractive.’

The findings were published in the journal Sex Roles.