s
Heel to Toe
High Heel Walking

Marilyn Monroe was quite right when she claimed that all women owe a lot to the person who invented high heels. Ask most women and they’d tell you that they cannot function without their heels. It's not just those wanting a little elevation, although that's certainly a factor. High heels can offer class, confidence and character to any woman wanting to look effortlessly fabulous. But effortless is one thing that high heels are not.

You may beg to differ based on how easily Beyonce sways on stage or how Jennifer Lopez does jumps and lunges in her music videos wearing stilettos. But the fact is, high heel walking is an art, one that requires tactics and practice to master. Following are a few tips and tricks to help you make strong personality statements by walking tall in high heels:

Buy the Right Heels

In order to wear the heels correctly, the first thing you need to nail down is the right purchase. A lot of times people end up compromising on size simply to get their desired look, however, high heel walking is greatly affected if the heels don’t fit perfectly. Make sure that the centering of the heel and your foot’s arch placement are correct. This may seem like a small glitch, but in the long run it can lead to a lot of pain and discomfort.

Choose The Right Heel Height

Effortless high heel walking for you might mean 2-3 inches, whereas someone else might consider heels above 4-5 inches doable. Don’t let someone else determine the right heel size for you. Always start with shorter heels and then increase the size with time. A good way to determine the most comfortable heel size is to stand on your toes with the back of your foot at least an inch above the heel of the shoe; if you can easily do that then the heel is the right size for you. High heel walking is all about practice and time. With practice you can gradually increase the size of your heel to as long as is practically possible. You may find that you need to purchase shoes with broader heels or wedges at first as they are easier to handle.

Practice, Practice and More Practice

Now that you have understood the level of your high heel walking incompetence and found the right pair of heels, it is time to get down to business. Follow these steps and you will be gliding in 6 inch heels in no time!

  • Start by standing in your heels. Stand for a few minutes and then sit down. Gradually increase the time to about 40-50 minutes so that you can get used to standing for prolonged periods of time. Try standing in front of a full length mirror so that you can observe your posture and adjust it accordingly. Be sure not to bend your knees while standing.
  • Take small steps at first at a slow pace on a non-slippery surface like a carpet. The stride tends to get shorter with higher heels, so don’t try to take long strides initially. Make sure that your knees don’t bend too much.
  • Gradually increase the speed and practice turning, sitting, stopping, changing directions and dancing as you would do all these things without heels.
  • Try wearing heels on different surfaces inside the house as well as outside. Many people only practice at home and then cannot hold the same stride and posture when wearing heels outdoors. High heel walking is even more difficult on outdoor surfaces like grass and gravel, so make sure that you practice on them too.
  • It is very important to learn walking on stairs with the heels on. Make sure that your entire foot is on the step when coming down the stairs. When going up, place the ball of your foot on every step, and don’t forget to hold on to the railing!
  • It is a good idea to practice several days before the event so that the sole of the heels will become less slippery and you can get used to the shoe.
  • One of the best ways to practice high heel walking is to wear them when you go out to do normal errands like buy groceries, after you’ve had ample practice indoors, of course. Generally the floors are a little slippery, but you will have the cart for balance, so it will be a great way to practice.

Whether it is the red soles of Loub’s, Carrie Bradshaw’s fetish for Blahnik’s or sheer love that's got you hooked to heels, with regular practice and determination, you, too can “run the world” like Beyonce in no time!

Clickless High Heel Protectors

On Trend with Buckle Strap Heels

You may have heard this before but we love heels! Especially this season’s buckle strap heels. These fun embellishments can really put a swagger in a fashionista's step. From polished professional to party squad staple, these buckle strap heels are sure to punch up your style power.

Rosaline

Rosaline

Guess knows an embellished heel and they accomplish it perfectly with the Rosaline pump. The chunky buckle ankle strap is shown off nicely in jet black leather. Straps and a 4-inch heel give this pointy toe pair the right amount of style and sophistication. Wear the Rosaline with faded denim for a fresh, edgy look.

Poppy

Poppy

Pop some style into your wardrobe with the Poppy. The Poppy by BCBG is a high heeled strappy sandal. Made of black Nappa leather, these heels are crafted in Italy. The oversized round buckle on the ankle strap is accented with fun fur enclosing the ankle. Recommended for high hem lines.

Gareth

Gareth

The Gareth by L.A.M.B has got serious swagger. A sandal made of Black leather accented by metallic leather studs and a silver buckle at the ankle. A 4-inch-high heel will get you geared up for the night.

Queen of Diamonds

Queen

It’s the detail of the Queen of Diamonds that we love. Free People gives us the sweetest pair of pointed-toe heels embellished by studs and stones. A brass buckle closes the adjustable ankle strap. Almost a Mary Jane style, but not quite.

Coco

Coco

We are crazy for Steve Madden’s Coco. The thick wrapped buckle strap is front and center of this high heeled sandal. With a platform sole and a 4.75 inch heel this pair will have you towering. Offered in black, tan and our favorite, a glimmering pewter.

Ballerina Heels

Ballerina

Vanessa Tao’s Ballerina Heels are truly a study in old meets new. The classic high heeled pump is embellished with a buckle strap at the heel and another buckle strap over the ridge of the foot. This pair is further adorned with an on-trend ankle tie. Offered in black and a soft lavender.

Langley

Langley

The Langley by Nine West puts the buckle front and center. An oversized buckle adorns this patent leather pair which makes this a sure bet for any fête. Offered in black and multi-colored slate/wine.

Buckle up fashionably for this season with these buckled high heels. Some feature hints of vintage while others boast metallic studs and patent leather; there is truly a perfect pair for every occasion!

Heel Protectors

5 Types of High Heels for Winter

What is a fashionista to do when the temperature drops? Wear high heels for winter, of course! Thankfully there are plenty of stylish and wonderful options for the cooler climes. Many of our favorites are found in soft suede, with accents and embellishments that are sure to punch up the style in your winter step.

The Versatile Wide Shaft High Heel Boot

Mia

The Mia by Dolce Vita is 100% black suede. It has a tall shaft about 10 inches or so and it is designed a little wider so that it could be slouched down or stand tall. The best part of these booties is that the shaft is adorned with stylish cutouts and metal grommets which are ideal for showing off a sparkle tight or simply stand alone. With a 4 inch heel you will be a stand out in the Mia.

The Strappy Sandal? Just Say Yes for Holiday Parties.

Strappy Sandal for Winter

The Luminate by Nordstom’s own, BP is a strappy sandal. Yes, there is some debate on whether or not the strappy sandal is the best choice for winter. However, while the weather outside is frightful, the style conscious still care that their feet look delightful. Plus, the Luminate comes in nine of the freshest colors for the season. From a rose gold crackle faux leather to denim, velvet and blush suede patent; we just can’t decide which color we like the most. The $59 price tag suggests a different pair for every day of the week.

The Wrap Around Lace Bootie

Wrap Around Bootie

Vince Camuto’s Chenai is a wrap-around lace bootie. ‘Tis the season for laces! The enclosed toe will keep your feet toasty and the 4-inch shaft will make this pair easy to slip on with a pencil skirt or your favorite pair of jeans. The Chenai is available in black leather, black suede, khaki suede and our favorite, cabernet suede. A side zip enclosure and padded foot bed will make this your favorite for all-day wear.

The Over-The-Knee

Over the Knee

No winter list would be complete without a mention of over-the-knee boots. Perennially, Calvin Klein presents a beautiful boot especially with the Coletta. Classic design and clean lines mark the gorgeous black, clay or warm coffee bean leather. A pointed toe and the long sleek boot shaft lengthen the leg in a flattering way. The slim heel is 2 3/4th inches tall. For leisurely walks on city streets, look to the Coletta.

The "Rock & Roll" Stiletto Heel Bootie

Stiletto Bootie

The Zepplin was made for long nights and rock and roll. Steve Madden has designed a towering 41/2-inch stiletto heel bootie. Made of rich velvet this spunky pair is available in black or a dark burgundy. A thick black ribbon laces up the front and ends in a bow at the top of the 4 ½ inch shaft. A back zipper and open toe complete this rockin’ pair. Wear for special occasions and VIP sections.

There is a lot to love in this roundup of high heels for winter. It goes to show that dropping temperatures are not an excuse for lagging style. Try peppering your winter wardrobe with a few of these pairs and dazzle the season away.

Clickless for Heels

10 Holiday Heels to Ring in 2017

It’s party season, people! Regardless of how you like to celebrate the holidays, there will probably be one party or occasion to don the perfect pair of holiday heels. Office parties, happy hours, ugly sweater contests; we are here to help you get through them all in style. Hold onto your skinny egg-nog latte and get ready to rock the holidays in a dazzling pair of holiday heels.

Unaosian

Aldo

The Unaosian pump by Aldo will have you party-ready! They are a faux suede, pointed toe pump with flattering thick laces that crisscross the bridge of the foot all the way to the ankle. A covered 4 1/4th in heel is the icing on the cake. Beautiful with cropped slim pants and pencil skirts. www.dsw.com

Stride

There is a lot to love about the Stride. This classic pump is made by the Queen of the high heel, SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker. The patent leather upper is a deep bronze color making this an elegant alternative to black. Metallic studs dot the shoe and a sweet ankle strap lends a soft feminine quality. www.zappos.com

Leo

Leo

L.A.M.B’s Leo is made for fierce feet and even more fierce attitudes. Black leather straps and studs combine in a very chic way. A back zipper makes for easy entry and the 4 ½ inch heel makes for dramatic exits. www.heels.com

Yulovit

The Yulovit by Nine West is a stylish suede bootie with an utterly chic side tassel. Tassels top the style charts and the Yulovit does it with an understated gold chain. The almond toe and 4-inch heel will make you the belle of the ball. Available in black and wine suede.

www.ninewest.com

Marta

We love the calf hair Marta pump by Michael Kors. The caged pump says “I mean business” but the leopard print reads “fun and flirty.” A 4” heel and gold buckle details are what really put this pair on the map. Also available in black and plum. www.michaelkors.com

June

What is a party without glitter? We can’t get enough of the sparkly stuff when done in a sophisticated way and that is what Kate Spade’s June is all about. The June is a suede sling-back with a glimmering stone covered heal. Offered in soft black suede and a bright poppy red. www.katespade.com

Privileged

Privileged by Eila puts the focus on the oh-so-current tassel. Leather tassels hug the ankle and brush the front of the foot. A towering 5-inch heel and a simple vamp strap will have you strutting though the valet line in no time. Available in black and nude. www.heels.com

Grazia

Calvin Klein’s Grazia is all about sass. Smooth leather booties are accented with silver studs. A 3 ½ in heel and side zip top off the Grazia. They look great with an LBD or pair with a leather moto. www.calvinklein.com

Sienna

We couldn’t leave florals out in the cold! Here is a wintery one that will bring a burst of color to your feet. Via Spiga’s Siena is a sweet platform pump with in anemone/wine fabric. The soft round toe is balanced by a 4 ½ inch heel. Also available in a deep grape suede. www.nordstrom.com

Charm

Kristin Cavallari’s Charm fringe bootie for Chinese Laundry is filled with boho glam. The black suede bootie is bedecked in a fun fringe just waiting for you to shake it on the dance floor. The 4-inch heel is also available in ginger suede. www.chineselaundry.com

Did someone say office party? Up your style game with one of these 10 pairs of holiday heels. You just might knock the stockings right off of your co-workers.

Swooning for Suede High Heels

Suede is everywhere this season and what is our favorite? Suede high heels of course! The perfect texture for winter, suede is both cozy and soft. Our roundup below scores high in sophistication. We have found buttery suede in every color of the rainbow with delightful accents and embellishments. Seriously, there are so many heels and so little time!

Carolina

Carolina

Aldo gives us the Carolina, a close-toe mule with an open heel. Long laces wrap around the ankle for a dramatic flair. With a 4” high heel; these are available in black suede and natural suede.

Paiton

Paiton

Steve Madden’s Paiton has the best of all worlds. A classic pump that works as well at the office as on the dance floor. It features a sexy stitch up the back of the heel and is offered in five fun colors: black, olive, tan, wine and grey. With a 4” stiletto heel we think you might need a pair for each day of the work week.

Prue

Prue

Did someone say date night? The Prue by BCBG makes looking sexy really fun. Made of kid suede they are a slip-on sling back with an peep-toe plus the metallic stiletto heel is fierce. Offered in black suede/silver and a sand suede/gold. What is not to love?

BB

BB

Heels can't be more classic than the BB by Manolo Blanik. Simple, clear and beautifully designed; the hand crafted pointy-toe pump is available in a number of gorgeous colors. Beige, black, blue, blush, camel, electric blue and tan; there is a color to pair with any outfit. A padded insole keeps these high heels comfortable for all day wear.

 

Tukko

Tukko

If you are looking for a fun suede high heel shoe, look no further than Lucky’s Tukko. A pointed toe, cut-out sides and a sweet little ankle strap have us swooning while the fun chili-pepper kid suede puts this pair over the top. A stacked heel, also offered in black this pair is spot-on.

Thea

Thea

The Thea by Sam Edelman brings style to the office and can be worn well into the night. With two adjustable straps, sweet gold closures and a pointed toe this is a seriously cute pair of heels. A lower heel at 3 ½” makes this stiletto all too walk-able.

Lucid

Lucid

SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker, the queen of stylish heels presents us with this dreamy pair, the Lucid. The classic pointy-toe black pump is accented with a crystal encrusted ankle strap. The 4” stiletto heel is handmade in Italy from rich suede. Yes, please.

Narissa

Narissa

Vince Camuto’s Narissa is an example of understated detail. Leather accents woven into suede are flecked with tiny gold studs. Need we say more? The 3 ½ inch wrapped heel comes in black and the trending Barolo wine color.

Davie

Davie

The Davie by Kate Spade is simply divine. The high-cut stiletto feels like a shootie; with a pointy toe and lace enclosure these are so feminine with a hint of vintage. The black suede high heel would pair well with dresses and skirts.

Telsa

Telsa

Sam Edelman’s Telsa is a d’Orsay style pointed-toe pump. It is simple and stylish and we love the colors! Inky navy blue suede, pink garnet and phantom grey are just the ticket to punch up a ho-hum outfit. A modest 3” wrapped heel will make these your favorites.

You really can’t go wrong with suede high heels. From work days to play nights our list shows that there is a wonderful pair for every occasion!

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