The Telegraph reported on a kinda-sorta-seems-scientifical research project, complete with cryptic explanation by experts. (Thanks to investigator Scott Langill for bringing it to our attention):
more than 92 per cent of women could remember the first shoes they bought with their own money. Less than two, however, in three recalled the name of the person they first kissed, the survey found. An overwhelming 96 per cent of women said they regretted having thrown away a pair of shoes, while only 15 per cent felt sorry at dumping a boyfriend. More than 1,000 women were questioned about their feelings towards their footwear and what they could remember about their shoes compared to their relationship memories. Experts said the reasons behind women’s fondness for footwear were down to their shoe buying habits.