High heels look elegant, graceful and sexy with any attire. They can make a woman feel more confident and desirable. However, it is important to make the right choice when it comes to buying high heels otherwise, you’ll end up regretting the purchase you made, especially if the price tag is a little on the heavier side. So, we are here to help you make the right choice when it comes to buying high heels. Here are 8 things you should consider when buying heels if you want your footwear to remain both, gorgeous and practical.
1. Choose the right size and the right fit.
You should know that different companies have different shoes sizes. So, always try a pair first to see if it is the right size and fit. High heels should fit nicely and hold the foot firmly in place. Loose heels may lead to your foot sliding up and down constantly and you will not be able to maintain your balance. Choose the right size, no matter how pretty the heels look.
2. Don’t opt for tight fitted heels.
Your heels should have enough space for your toes. If your heels are not wide enough, it will definitely cause pain and cramps. Also, wearing high heels without sufficient space for your toes can increase the chances of developing hammer toes, corns, bunions and arthritis. So, opt for pointy toes heels with a slightly rounded almond shape that will prove more room for your toes.
3. Shop at the end of the day.
This might sound weird but, your feet are more likely to be tired and swollen from work and daily activities so, this is the best time to shop for your heels because you’ll get an idea of how the shoe will fit you throughout the day. Don’t try out heels in the morning if you don’t want to complain about it being too tight after your feet have swollen. Shop towards the end of the day when your feet are swollen to make sure your heels fit you perfectly.
4. Take the walk test.
Never buy a pair of heels without walking in them first. Wear both your heels and parade up and down the shop for at least 5 minutes. Walk in them, turn in them and try an gauge how balanced you feel in them. Think hard about buying a pair of heels if there is a hint of wobble. If it is hard for you to maintain your balance and posture then you should look out for other options. Consider buying heels with thick insoles and proper cushioning.
5. Opt for leather or suede high heels.
Invest in good quality leather heels if you want your feet to feel comfortable in the long run. High heels made of suede, leather or a combination of both tend to easily adjust to the feet shape. This material will also prevent your feet from chafing. Apart from this, shoes made from real leather or suede last for much longer.
6. Check for the heel placement and thickness.
When choosing high-heels, check where the heel is placed. The heel should ideally be placed under your own heel. Remember, thicker the heel, the greater the support it provides for your body. Look for platforms that will distribute your weight across the entire foot evenly instead of concentrating it at the ball of the foot or the heel. So, go for wider, thicker heels if you want to decrease the risk of sprained ankles.
7. Consider the height of the heels.
High heels that are 3 cm to 9 cm high are the most comfortable to walk in. Heels more than that height put more pressure on your lower back, knees, ankles and do not give any support for balancing. Opt for ‘Kitten heels’ that are 4 cm to 5 cm in height and are a versatile choice for everyday wear. You can also buy heels with a height of 7-8 cm for work. The 10 cm heel is a great option to wear to a party or dinner. Avoid buying heels that are more than 10 cm in height.
8. Keep your wardrobe in mind.
Don’t buy a pair of heels just for the sake of it. Go for shoe shopping keeping your wardrobe in mind. When you are making a purchase, try an imagine your outfits and figure out if your heels will match with your outfits. If you don’t have a lot of outfits that will compliment the heels, it’s best to leave the shoes on the shelf and move on.
Shop wisely, ladies.