In some countries in Africa and the Middle East, it's common for me to attract disapproving stares and unwanted attention because my sneakers were considered 'appropriate for men'. Even when I'm just browsing a marketplace and stumble upon sneakers, I immediately get pointed to sections for women. The men don't want me looking at shoes molded for them, even if they are the same styles that are unisex everywhere else in the world.
So what do they want me to look at instead? Usually sneakers they think would look good on women, shoes that look like they were made for dolls with unicorns, super narrow toeboxes, pink, and fully loaded in glitter.
Avoid Negative Perceptions
If you think it's only men that make the judgments, you are wrong. Eastern countries, and the regions within them, have dress codes with limits on what is considered appropriate and what crosses the limits. In some societies women are expected to be docile and very feminine in their mannerisms and dress style. Waking around in straight-legged denim, a pair of chunky Nike dunks in lime and green, and a loose mens t-shirt cut at the sleeves, is going to create a stir if you are in the Middle East, Africa, and parts of the Orient. If you understand the language, the words can be sour.
So how do you avoid such situations? You can stay the rebel and accept the conflict that comes with it, or you can flow freely with the crowds in peace. The pay off is that you don't stand out enough to have a camera or purse stolen. The pay off is avoiding negative situations in a foreign environment where you are a visitor. The best tool is to go neutral, or as they say about assimilation, "When in Rome do as Romans do. " Choose sneakers that can cross cultures, and are versatile in most social and even work situations.
