Six-inch heels aren’t on a typical school supply list, but they’re a college essential for the members of Stiletto Queens.
Established in 2022, this RSO prides itself on being more than a dance team, but a place where students can turn into dancers and work on their self-confidence.
In a university with more than 60,000 students and over 800 RSOs, Stiletto Queens stands out thanks to its unique style: they perform almost exclusively in stiletto heels.
For new member Mukta Patil, senior in AHS, the club has already become an important part of her life in the few weeks since joining — and the footwear is not an issue.
“We started off with heels instantly,” Patil said. “I feel like I’m really comfortable in it. I think it’s so awesome. It’s definitely the best thing I’ve done in college.”
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Patil had a dance background through Fizaa, a Bollywood performance team, but wanted a change of rhythm and commitment level. Eventually, she found a match with Stiletto Queens, just in time for her last year at the University.
“It’s kind of one of those things that are on my bucket list before I graduate, so I decided to try out this semester, and I got in,” Patil said. “So that was awesome.”
As co-vice president Luna Piccioni, junior in LAS, points out, the team strives to foster a welcoming atmosphere, with auditions being gender-inclusive and open to all skill levels.
Piciconi started out as a general member as a freshman, then rose to artistic director until being elected to her current position.
“There are a lot of people that try out, but it is beginner-friendly,” Piccioni said. “They don’t expect you to try out in heels. The heels should never scare you, so definitely give it a shot if you’re interested in dance or performing, or really want to work on your confidence.”
Other members, like Muskan Shivnani, a graduate student studying computer science, agree that Stiletto Queens has an “inspiring energy” that unites the group.
“I kept an eye on the team all last semester and, as soon as auditions opened this year, I tried out, got in and officially became part of the squad,” Shivnani said.
While she’s been on the team for a short time, Shivnani says she’s already formed special memories with her fellow dancers, particularly during their varied performances.
“My favorite memory so far has to be our very first performance together at El Grito,” Shivnani said. “We even saw a rainbow right before going on stage — definitely felt like a good luck sign. The performance itself was such a thrill; the adrenaline and energy were unreal.”
Though not every performance is perfect, the team reflects a strong resilience and camaraderie above all. As Piccioni recalls, their collaboration with Sorry Papi in November 2024 was tinged with uneasy feelings regarding the presidential election, adding to the stress of show day.
“Morale was a little low, but once we got to the day of the performance, we all walked into the venue, and immediately everyone’s eyes just lit up,” Piccioni said. “There were balloons and decorations, and we saw the stage, and I could feel everyone’s energy just lift entirely.”
Between practices at the ballroom and social events among new and old teammates, Stiletto Queens has built a truly uplifting community that empowers students through dance.
“Obviously, if you’re dancing in high heels and doing floor work, you have to feel sexy, look sexy, and I think that, yes, the dance part is fun,” Patil said, reflecting on her first month as a Stiletto Queen. “I think those qualities and traits translate into every aspect of your life. I think it affects how you carry yourself, every room you walk into — I think it really makes a big difference.”
