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Heel to Toe
Which States Wear High Heels the Most?

We love a good homework assignment, especially when it has to do with our favorite subject, high heels! We took a look at which states in the US wear high heels the most and we think that you’ll be surprised by the answers; it knocked our socks right off!

New York

The Big Apple is also big on fashion. Some consider it one of the fashion capitals of the world, and our data confirms that New Yorkers love their high heels! Nevermind the amount of trips uptown or downtown, New Yorkers love their heels and don't mind the trek.

Ohio

Here's a surprise, but apparently Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati are big fans of big heels. Ohio is considered the "heart of it all", and it appears they <3 their heels. 

Texas

The largest state in the lower United States, the Lone Star State is not alone in its love for high heels. Texans are the 4th state where people wear heels the most. The capital of Texas is Austin which claims to be the live music capital of the world. The city boasts an impressive line-up of music festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits. Festival go-ers must dress to the hilt and they don’t forget to rock their favorite pair of high heels when rocking out.

California

If you're going to San Francisco, be sure to wear the best high heels! With so many big fashionable cities under its belt, this one was no surprise to us. From beaches to wineries and mountains to urban landscapes, California has it all and there's no reason their feet shouldn't look top notch.

Florida

With Florida's dynamic demographics of young people and retirees, this one was an interesting revelation. But great weather often prompts equally great fashion, and Florida has some of the best of both. A cute maxi dress or flowy linen pants both look equally elegant and timeless with a classic pair of heels.

New Mexico

Located in the South Western part of the United State, New Mexico is known for its varied landscape and for its vibrant population. The state is home to dramatic mountains, canyons and sandy desserts. In the capital of Santa Fe one may find healing spas and Spanish architecture. There is also a lively arts and restaurant scene here. We think that the patrons must be well-heeled when they are enjoying their gallery walks and a haute cuisine because this is the state that wears high heels more than any other state.

Nevada

Nevada residents must like to strut around in high heels. If you can imagine the population of show-girls on the Las Vegas strip, that would equal a high-heeled army. Not to mention the incredible shoe shopping that luxury casinos  have to offer. What is a girl to do with a pocket full of gambling winnings? Buy shoes! With warm temperatures year round, who doesn’t wear high heels in Sin City?

Arizona

The “Grand Canyon State” comes in at the top as well. Though we admire Arizonans love of high heels, we certainly hope that no one is hiking around those canyons in them!  Also located in the South Eastern United States, Arizona is known for deep canyons, a warm dessert climate and the largest cacti in the country. One fun fact is that the state flower is the Saguaro cactus blossom. We would tuck one of those blossoms behind one ear and sport stiletto huaraches around Scottsdale.

There are the top states that wear heels the most. No matter what state you are in; don’t forget to celebrate your most fashionable self whether that is in high heels or not.

Spring Heels Under $100

Spring shoes are one of the best things about this season! Antsy feet rejoice as they bask in the spotlight of a polished pedicure and a dainty peep toe. Warm sun feeds not only the soul, but if feeds the sole. Here are our favorite spring high heels that we think you will love just as much as we do.

Nine West’s Kookie Slingback Mary Jane Pointy Toe

Be still my beating heart, these slingbacks are the sweetest! With a pointy toe and a 3-inch heel, the Kookie can be on day or night or day to night with nary a wobble. We loved them in denim with nude accents until we saw the nude snake skin and then the black snake skin and now, well, we are just in love with them all.

Sole Society’s Angelica

This red white gingham pointed toe pump is sophisticatedly cute. A sexy Strawberry Shortcake would wear to these to the office to perfect her strong lunch game. So stylish with a nude 2 and 3/4 inch heel, they are a go-to spring high heel.

Sole Society’s Jensine Suede Mid Heel Pump

What makes this mid heel so fierce is the edgy bow embellishment on the side. Soft mustard suede meets a 2 ½ inch heel which means these shoes were made for walking. Plus, the neutral color matches everything.

The Glamo Dress Sandal by Guess

The always glamorous Guess brings us this light gold beauty, tastefully doused in rhinestones. With an open toe and closed heel, these boast a 4 and ½ inch heel promising that these spring high heels will bring some sparkle to your step!

Vince Camuto’s Callista Floral Pump

This pair of heels is a study in juxtaposition. The Callista has the classic line of the pump yet is covered in a colorful floral print. The 4-inch heel holds the sophistication high while the bright floral brings the fun.

Steve Madden Varcityy

Another floral pump, the Varcityy features a fabric floral print, but also a slick black heel and a black outline. The heel contrasts with the vibrant colors with a shiny black, almost patent leather, which gives this sweet pair a serious edge.

Vince Camuto Baletts

Love the colors in these floral prints: ruby with a touch of turquoise and navy. A closed toe and closed heel with cut-outs in between, these spring high heels are simply a must for a spring night on the town.

Sole Society’s Magnolia in Poppy

Poppy is one of our favorite colors because, simply stated, it pops! We love it on the extremities, especially feet and fingernails. Butter soft suede has laser-cut details which lend this pair an edge. A pointy toe and 3-inch heel make this a winner on any court.

Hannah Dress Sandal By Fergalicious

Fans of the strappy sandal will love the Hannah! Crisscrossing faux leather or fabric straps wrap the foot, leaving the toe exposed yet keep the foot secure with a closed back and ankle strap. A traction outsole and 3 inch heel will keep you on your toes and on the dance floor.

Camba by Jessica Simpson

Yes, you “Camba” with this saucy pair of spring high heels. A flirtatious lace fabric keeps it sexy and keeps it understated. The peekaboo mesh and Vivid Red color make this classic pump flirty and fresh.

We are pleased to present this small selection of wallet-friendly finds; and we hope that this helps you spring into your Spring season in a very fashionable way.

Clickless for Heels

What to do Before Going to the Cobbler

Does the word "Cobbler" remind you of warm gooey peaches topped with a crunchy crust, straight from the oven? Cobbler is not only a favorite dessert, it’s an old word and an old profession. A trusted Cobbler can be the shoe lover's best friend.

With the amount of thought, mental scrutiny, money and time that you put into selecting every pair of shoes, wouldn't it make sense to take precautions to protect your investment in fabulosity? Use our three "step" program below before going to the cobbler.

The Pre-Cobbler Three Step Program (no pun intended)

shoe repair

Step 1. Pre-treat: A little shoe-shine can go a long way! Have you spotted one those funny couches in an airport or city street? Well, they serve a function! Treat your feet and your shoes to a little treat. Shoe polish not only cleans and sparkles a dull finish but can condition a shoe's material and extend the life of a favorite pair of kicks. If its the winter season, add a water repellent.


Slippery Shoe

Step 2. Clean: For the same reason as periodic treatments, keep those shoes clean. Dirt will degrade leather, suede or man-made material and lead to a faster break-down, which can result less traction and a less-than-solid shoe statement. Make sure the heel and sole are clean and free of debris as well as the interior of the shoe and foot bed.    

Shoe Care Cleaning

Step 3. Protect: For every type of shoe, there is a treatment to ensure your feet are looking their best. Consider a high heel protector for higher heels and for peace of mind that those heels are resting assuredly on your favorite bar stool rung.

And, last but not least...

High Heel Protector

Repair: If there is damage beyond what a clean and polish can take care of, such as a deep nick, scratch, or a snapped heel, you should head to the nearest shoe Cobbler. In case of breakage, remember to keep any and all parts of the shoe. The cobbler may need them to reconstruct. This can be a hefty investment but worth it for a favorite pair of shoes. 

Note that many cobblers don’t have websites. Ask other snappy shoe owners for their go-to spot. We're sure they’d be happy to share.

Images (top down): jikatu, statickflickr, cocoparisienne, weinheld90

Clickless High Heel Protectors

6 Famous Movie Shoe Fails

It’s no secret that shoes play a center role in entertainment. And when those shoes fail, it takes us off guard and makes for memorable moments we'll not soon forget. Shoe malfunctions, breakdowns, glitches and blips really bring life to any story, fiction or non.

1. Cinderella & the Glass Slipper

Oh dear, this heroine would still doing chores out the wazoo without her glass slippers and their famous malfunction! The latest version of Cinderella is not animated and will appeal to a more sophisticated audience. It looks like sophistication is exactly what Disney is aiming for, offering a line of Cinderella-inspired footwear by nine top designers including Jimmy Choo and Salvatore Ferragamo. Stewart Wietzman presents a jewel encrusted bootie for the line especially designed for the modern princess, priced at a cool $3,500 (available at Saks). And here's a pretty hilarious spoof on the new movie from Saturday Night Live. 

2. He Stole My Strappy Sandals!

We can’t discuss famous shoe malfunctions without the girl who brought the name Manolo Blahnik into every woman’s living room. In hindsight, it’s hard to know if Carrie chased more men around NYC or more pairs of shoes. How can we forget a young, bumbling Carrie in Sex In The City’s “What Goes Around, Comes Around” episode. Poor Carrie is robbed and not only are her hand bag (bagette to be exact) and keys stolen, but her favorite pair of designer strappy sandals.

3. Uh, As If!

Who can forget the 1995 cult hit Clueless? From Tai learning to drive to the famous party scene ("rollin' with the homies"), there are so many memorable moments that are so 90's. But do you remember Cher's shoe malfunction? Travis spills Coke onto Cher's satin sandals and she is not too happy about it. 

4. Don't Make Me Drop a House on You

Coveted by the Wicked Witch of the West, Dorothy’s ruby slippers are considered one of the most important film props in the world. And who can forget this amazing bit of 1939 cinemagic? After the house falls on the Wicked Witch of the East, her sister of the West comes for the slippers, and they magically disappear as her feet and legs recoil under the house. Say what?! Can you say "shoe fail" on the part of the Wicked Sisters? In 2011 this crimson pair sold for a whopping $2-3 million dollars and another pair are currently on display at the Smithsonian, one of the most treasured and asked about pieces in their collection.

5. Death by Stiletto

Here's another outrageous 90's movie shoe malfunction to add to the list. Bridget Fonda shines in the "erotic thriller" Single White Female, playing a psychotic character who causes turmoil for her roommate and her fiancé, Sam. At one point, she gets the same haircut and clothes as her roommate and impersonates her in bed with Sam. When Sam threatens to reveal the truth, she gouges his eye out with a stiletto heel, killing him. Yowch. What a way to go.

6. How Do They Walk in These Things?

In this hilarious 1959 classic, two men witness a murder and are on the run from the mob. They cross-dress into an all female band. Problems ensue when one falls for Marilyn Monroe's character, but he can't tell her because he's a "woman". The other is pursued by a rich suitor who is relentless. In the scene below you get an idea of how difficult it must be for a first-time walker in high heels, as the men wobble through the transit station.

Clickless High Heel Protectors

How to Make Old Heels Look New

When you step out to strut your stuff, it’s always a good idea to put your best foot forward. But what if that foot is firmly planted in a favorite pair of heels that has started to look a little worn? Splits, chips, scuffs, scrapes and rips are common high heel problems that can all be fixed at home. Whether a furry friend has used your heels as a chew toy, or you're the victim of simple wear and tear, there are a number of steps you can take to put a spring back in your step and give an old pair of heels a loving little face lift.

5 Ways to Make High Heels Look Newer

1. Replace the Heel Tip

Because of pressure that the heel endures, a lost or chipped heel tip is a common issue. A replacement kit can be found at a shoe repair shop, online or at your local craft store. First, glue any split or torn fabric back to the heel with adhesive applied with a sponge or small nail brush. If damage is extensive, camouflage with a matching color acrylic paint. Second, either glue or hammer the tip into place. Lastly, file the heel tip to fit the shape of your shoe, but not too much that you weaken it. One way to prevent the need for this type of fix by wearing high heel protectors, especially when walking outdoors and on rough surfaces. 

2. Fix a Broken Ankle Strap

Don’t let this common problem slow you down. A sketchy heel strap, or blown out flip-flop or sandal is actually a very easy fix! A number of shoe adhesives are available at drug stores or even superglue would work in a pinch. First, remove any dirt or dust with a dry cloth, surfaces must be dry for the glue to set. Second, remove any stray thread or torn fabric. Apply glue and let sit for at least two minutes. Third, press pieces gently together and use a clamp to hold, a clothespin or paperclip will do. Let dry for 24 hours.

3. Walk This Way

When heels don’t fit properly they will show signs of age sooner. Luckily, there are a number of products that do double duty to help your feet and your fabulous heels! If an ankle rubs the back of the shoe, apply a band aid to create a barrier, or gel pads are re-usable. Foot inserts are available to take pressure off the ball of the foot, and arch supports help support the foot and back. The better fitting heel will instantly look newer.  

4. Condition, Condition, Condition

For any heel material, there is a way to clean and a way to pre-treat. A favorite shoe store or online site features a number of products to spiff up your heels. Each season, take out your collection of shoes and give each a clean. Then, depending on the circumstances, waterproof, de-salt, brush and buff each pair to perfection. Each pair will look renewed and this will prolong the life of the shoe.

5. Scratch & Color Fixes

When conditioning alone doesn't fix scratches, tears and scrapes, additional repair might be necessary. This is difficult with fabric shoes, but can be done with other materials as long as it isn't too deep or wide. First, prep the shoe by buffing out each scrape with leather oil. Then, use a color matching shoe polish to disguise the blemish.

Conclusion

Old age isn’t a good reason to retire a pair of heels, and expensive high heels are particularly worthy of the effort to keep them looking new. Renew your shoes with these handy tips and tricks and old becomes new again. It’s like getting new shoes without spending much money, and that makes everyone feel fabulous!

Clickless High Heel Protectors

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