In 2019, the high heels market was worth more than $34 billion.
They’re a popular fashion statement and can be the perfect finishing touch to any outfit.
But if you’re not used to high heels, they can be a challenge to walk in.
Are you new to wearing high heels? Our beginner’s guide to walking in high heels will help you look and feel great.
1. Start Low and Work Up
If you’ve never worn heels before, it’s probably best to avoid starting with 6” stilettos. Otherwise, you’re likely to teeter and fall from heels that are too high.
Wearing a shoe with a lower heel will make you look and feel more confident and comfortable. It will make sure that your body isn’t pushed too far forward. It will also mean there is less pressure and pain on the balls of your feet.
2. The Thicker the Heel, The Better
The width and shape of your heels are more important than you might think.
Block and chunky heels offer more support than a super-thin heel. It means that you’re more stable while you walk. It also spreads out the impact when your feet hit the ground, helping to reduce any heel and back pain.
If you are experiencing any discomfort, make sure you change your shoes and treat heel pain as quickly as possible.
3. The Power of Platforms
You can also choose heels that have a platform at the front. This is a great way to add height without sacrificing comfort.
Platforms reduce the height difference between the ball of your foot and your heel. This makes the shoe much more comfortable.
4. What About Wedges?
Wedges can be the perfect place to start with high heels. They’re the perfect mixture of flats and heels. They give you a stable base to walk on and offer you more support.
Ideally, look for wedges where the bottom of the shoe is as wide as the upper part. If the bottom becomes narrower towards the middle of the shoe, they may not be the best option.
5. Give Your Toes Some Room
The toe shape of shoes usually comes in round, peep-toe, square, or pointy.
Round and peep-toe shoes are the most comfortable options. These give your toes room to spread out.
Pointy shoes are usually the most uncomfortable. Your toes are squashed together, and it doesn’t give you much room to distribute your weight.
6. Try Before You Buy
The style and material of your shoes can hugely affect how they feel on your feet. Flats and sneakers are usually more forgiving and flexible than high heels.
When you’re trying on high heels, you might need to size up or down. It’s best to try different options before you buy, so you can decide what feels best for you.
7. Practice at Home
As they say, practice makes perfect. Practice wearing your heels at home before going out in them.
It’s best to practice on as many different surfaces as possible, including carpets, tiles, and smooth flooring. It can also be very helpful to get used to going up and downstairs. This can feel quite different and daunting at first!
This will also help to break your heels in. You can get used to them, and they can mold to the shape of your feet. That way you can avoid getting blisters.
8. Improve Your Posture
Wearing high heels changes your center of gravity. So, it’s helpful to pay attention to your posture.
While you’re wearing your heels, imagine there is a string from the crown of your head towards the sky that is pulling upwards. Your head should be stacked on top of your spine, and your shoulder should be held back.
Walking in High Heels
High heels don’t have to be agonizing and dangerous. Follow this beginner’s guide, and walking in high heels will look and feel great.
If you found this helpful, make sure you take a look at our other fashion ideas and tips.
