Wearing heels can elevate your style, but it’s important to know how to wear them comfortably and confidently. From choosing the right heel height to maintaining proper posture, here are the dos and don’ts of wearing heels.
1. Do: Choose the Right Heel Height
Select a heel height that you can comfortably walk in. While high heels may look glamorous and fun to wear, they can strain your feet and posture over time. If you’re planning on wearing heels for several hours, choose a more comfortable, appropriate height. Your feet and back will thank you.
2. Don’t: Wear Strappy Heels for Long Periods
Strappy heels can be stylish but often lack the support needed for all-day wear. If you’re heading into the office or for a several-hour-long event, avoid wearing strappy heels, or else you’ll end the night with foot pain and blisters. Opt for heels that have more coverage and stability for comfy feet all night long.
3. Do: Invest in Quality Pumps
A classic pump with a moderate heel is a chic and timeless choice. Not only do these shoes look great, but they’ll protect your feet better than other heels in the long run. This is because pumps provide better support and balance than other heel types, making them a great option for both work and formal occasions.
4. Don’t: Wear Sky High Heels as You Age
As you get older, it’s wise to retire extremely high heels. Though you might not want to let go of this wardrobe staple, it’s better for you in the long run. These can increase the risk of falls and put unnecessary strain on your joints. This doesn’t mean you need to give up heels entirely; opt for a block heel and shorter heels for a sleeker, more sophisticated look.
5. Do: Consider Mid Stacked Heels
Mid-stacked or block heels are a great option for adding height without compromising comfort. They offer better stability and distribute weight more evenly, reducing the strain on your feet. This means that, as opposed to a stiletto heel, these heels will be comfier for longer and less hard on the feet.
6. Don’t: Wear Wedges for Formal Events
Wedges are great for casual wear but can appear too bulky for formal occasions. Not only are they bulky, but as far as heels go, they look far too casual. This doesn’t mean you need to wear uncomfortable heels; for formal events, try to opt for sleeker heels like pumps or kitten heels for a more polished look.
7. Do: Wear Heels with Arch Support
Have you ever stopped to check whether your heels have proper arch support? You’re likely to check sneakers and flats, but often, we don’t stop to think about heels. Ensure your heels have adequate arch support to prevent foot pain and long-term issues like plantar fasciitis. Look for shoes with built-in support, or consider adding inserts.
8. Don’t: Wear Platform Heels
While platform heels add extra height, they can make your gait awkward and unbalanced. They also made you look out of proportion to the rest of your outfit. For the best look when it comes to heels, stick to simpler heel designs that allow for a natural stride and don’t disproportion you.
9. Do: Pay Attention to Your Posture
When wearing heels, it’s essential to maintain good posture. If you pay attention, you’re probably not maintaining a good posture when you’re in heels. Keep your shoulders back, engage your core, and take smaller steps to avoid putting too much pressure on your lower back.
10. Don’t: Wear Sculptural Heels for Everyday Wear
Sculptural heels might look avant-garde and add a fun flair to an outfit, but the fact of the matter is that they’re often tricky to walk in and can be impractical for daily wear. Save sculptural heels for special occasions where you won’t need to do much walking. As for everyday moments, keep it simple with a classic heel that provides ample support.
11. Do: Consider Flats with a Small Heel
Wearing heels doesn’t mean towering in 10 inch uncomfortable heels, there are smarter, more comfy options. Flats with a small heel, like mules or loafers, are a great choice if you’re looking for comfort without sacrificing style. They offer a chic, polished look without the discomfort of high heels.
12. Don’t: Ignore Foot Pain
If your heels are causing pain, don’t ignore it. While some heels are generally uncomfortable, having foot pain is not normal and shouldn’t be pushed aside. Continuing to wear uncomfortable shoes can lead to long-term damage to your feet, legs, and back. If you’re experiencing pain, it’s a sign that you shouldn’t be wearing those shoes. Switch them out for a more modest and comfortable option.
13. Do: Rotate Your Shoes
You shouldn’t exclusively be wearing high heels. You might think that this makes you look chic, but you could actually be causing irreparable damage to your feet. Rotating between different types of shoes, including heels and flats, can help prevent foot strain. It also allows your feet to recover, reducing the risk of pain and injury.
14. Don’t: Forget to Break in New Heels
Getting a new pair of shoes is exciting, and you may be tempted to slip on your new heels the second you get home and wear them out. However, wearing new heels straight out of the box can lead to blisters and discomfort. Take the time to break them in by wearing them around the house before debuting them on a night out.
15. Do: Opt for Heels with a Wider Base
Heels aren’t meant to be impossible to walk in; they should be secure and comfy. Heels with a wider base offer more stability and are easier to walk in. This makes them a better choice for those who are not accustomed to wearing heels regularly. Not just this, they’re a great choice if you have to wear heels for extended periods of time, too.