Tips for Buying Formal High Heels
Whether you want to glam up your look or need to dress more formally, formal heels are a stylish option. However, not everyone is comfortable wearing high heels all day long. Fortunately, there are several tips to remember when buying and wearing heels.
Keep in mind that your new shoes will need to be broken in. It’s a good idea to wear them around the house and take small steps until they are comfortable enough to be worn out and about.
Choose the Right Heel Height
The right pair of formal high heels can elevate any outfit. However, they’re not so stylish if you’re hobbling around in pain after only a few hours on your feet. Thankfully, there are several ways to make heels more comfortable. A popular trick is to tape your third and fourth toes together, which alleviates stress by spreading your weight across more of your foot. Moleskin is ideal for this, as it’s specifically designed to stick to feet and won’t fall off.
A middle ground is 3- to 4-inch heels, which elongate the legs and look great for parties or dinners. Anything higher, and you’ll have a hard time teetering in them like Bambi, which isn’t a look most of us want to sport.
Try them on when shopping for a new pair of high heels and walk around the house in them. It will show you whether they’ll feel good throughout the night at your event.
Choose the Right Sole Material
A good pair of heels can elevate a night out and give you the confidence to walk in — but the wrong pair can make it feel like you’re playing Roulette with your feet. Not only can the wrong pair of heels hurt, but they can also flare up pre-existing foot problems or leave you with a swarm of blisters that ruin the rest of your night.
When choosing a pair of formal high heels, choose a soft and malleable material, such as leather or suede. These materials will mould your feet over time and avoid blisters, whereas stiffer materials such as lucite or plastic are more likely to cause them. Another tip for avoiding blisters when wearing heels is to wear a pair with adjustable straps. Adjustable straps will help ensure your shoes fit perfectly, even as your feet swell over the day. Also, look for a cushioned sole or memory foam, as these will be more comfortable than flats.
Break In Your Heels
If you’re a bride who wants to wear heels, the best way to prevent painful blisters on your wedding day is to break in your shoes. It will make them feel more comfortable and allow your feet to conform to the shape of your shoes.
Start by wearing your shoes around the house to soften them up. Be sure to wear thick, padded socks to help with the stretching process. Use moleskin or fabric plasters to pad any areas where the shoes may rub.
Don’t buy your shoes too small – they will be much harder to break in and can cause foot pain, bunions and other problems. You can also try the freezer bag method, which will loosen up stiff spots in your shoes. Just be careful not to put them in the freezer for too long, or the leather could shrink. Play Goldilocks when you’re buying heels – they should be just right!
Keep Your Wardrobe in Mind
One of the worst mistakes you can make when buying high heels is assuming that they will fit with all the dresses in your closet. Instead of settling for something that doesn’t work, choose a style that fits with what you already own.
For example, if you have a lot of formal slip dresses and mini skirts in your wardrobe, opt for a pair of kitten heels with a gradual heel height. It will look elegant with many of your dresses while allowing you to wear them on multiple occasions without worrying about hurting your feet. This combination also makes sense, regardless of the colour of your outfit or the type of event you plan on attending.
Another great tip is to purchase high heels made of leather or suede. This material will easily shape itself to the foot and ankle, providing more stability and comfort over time. It’s also often a bit thicker than other materials, which can help reduce the amount of pressure on your feet. It is especially important if you plan to wear your heels for extended periods.