In her book "Bad Feminist," Roxane Gay explores the societal pressures on women that often prioritize aesthetics over practicality. She uses the metaphor of high heels and purses, describing them as attractive but ultimately designed to hinder women's movements and freedom. This illustrates a broader commentary on how women's choices are often influenced by external expectations, which can restrict their empowerment and agency.

Gay's critique highlights the tension between embracing femininity and confronting the limitations it can impose. By likening these fashionable items to a myth, she suggests that while they may appear appealing, they also serve to slow women down in their pursuit of equality and independence. This reflection encourages readers to reconsider the implications of their choices within a societal framework that often prioritizes appearance over functionality.