High heels for babies: parents outraged by shoes accused of 'sexualising' infants
A US firm offering high-heeled 'crib shoes' for baby girls has been slammed by parents on social media, who have branded the items "shocking" and "disgusting".
Pee Wee Pumps, based in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, was founded by Michele Holbrook who had the idea after she struggled to find a pair of heels for her own daughter
"They’re just like mom’s favorite pair of pumps only in a miniature size," says the company website, adding: "Pee Wee Pumps will be your daughter’s first fashion statement.
"The flexible soft shoe will form to your daughter’s foot, whether it’s narrow or wide, while its adjustable strap allows the shoe to stay on and provides a comfortable fit."
The firm offers six designs of high heels, with names including 'Diva', 'Swanky' and 'Wild Child', all currently priced at $9.99 (around £8). The heel is collapsible, and the shoes are not for walking in.
A link to the Pee Wee Pumps website was recently posted to the Let Clothes Be Clothes Facebook page, where a number of commenters expressed horror that any parent would consider putting their baby in high heels.
"Sorry but this is sick!" said one commenter. "Children should be allowed to be children and not dressed up to look like hookers!"
"What disturbs me is not that someone made a product so obviously inappropriate, but that I know a hoard of mums will be out there somewhere, chomping at the bit to kit their little 'princesses' out in heels and bling," said another.
Several commenters expressed concern that the shoes were 'sexualising' children who wore them - but Ms Holbrook defended her products, telling the Daily Mail: "I am a mother first and foremost I would never endanger a baby in any way. Pee Wee Pumps are considered by most people to be a photo prop just as the tutus, headbands or lacey rompers that parents also use in photo shoots.
"People are in entitled to their option so I just have to accept that people are either going to love them or hate them."
