For several months now, Pleasers have been gracing my for you page on Tik Tok. For anyone unaware, Pleasers is a footwear brand that specializes in platform high heels that are commonly associated with strippers. Pleasers have risen in popularity in recent years, from pole dancers to people feeling adventurous with a new shoe choice. As the shoes rise in fame, the sex workers wearing the shoes the longest have been left in the dust.
In the fast-paced fashion world of trends, it can become easy to get swept up in a particular object without considering its history – yet we must consider how our own clothing choices can impact historically marginalized communities. Pleasers are not simply a sexy shoe choice. They hold significance in the identity that they give the performers who wear them. Sex workers have suffered greatly in the pandemic, often being excluded from government aid. OnlyFans has become an unreliable source of income for many due to celebrities such as Bella Thorne appropriating the platform that had become a common way for sex workers to earn a living.
The clothing that we put on each day as we get dressed has a history behind it. When looking at Pleasers, it’s important to defend sex workers as well as their respect, justice, and rights – because, without them, the shoes wouldn’t be the symbol of power that they are today.
Creative Director and Video Editor by Lauren Helgason.
Cinematography by Alice Winter.
Lighting by Joe Tankersley.
Modeling by Romulus.
Styling by Daniela Guevara.
Words by Nicholson Baird.
Song by Prod. Jazzoo.