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Heel to Toe
The Art of 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!

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High Heel Covers & Why You Need Them

 How many stiletto heels have you bid goodbye to by walking on uneven ground, breaking or chipping off a heel? Or perhaps your downfall is that you let your high heels deteriorate in storage or during travel, shoving them into too tight of a space.

Whatever the reason you keep ruining your favorite high heels, it’s time to wise up and start using high heel protectors. That’s right, they are known by various names like ‘heel protectors’, ‘heel covers’, ‘shoe stopper’ or ‘heel cap’, but they all have the same function: to lengthen the life of your high heels.

What Are Heel Covers?

There are different types of heel covers, and what you choose will depend on the type of wear your heels typically see. Some are nothing but a small case or bag for your shoe to protect it from dust and scratching while in storage. There is also the good old-fashioned type of shoe cover. First, the shoehorn, which will maintain the shape of your high heel if you have it shoved into a tight space for storage or travel. Second, a simple leather protectant balm or spray can help keep your kicks looking fabulous.

Predictably, your heel tip is the most vulnerable to damage on any surface, and once the heel tip is damaged, the shoe by itself loses its purpose. Hence, some high heel covers are caps that you put over the tip of the heel to protect it. It doesn’t matter how hard you work out with that gym membership, your heels have to carry your entire weight on a teeny tiny heel point. So, this type of heel cover protects the heel and allows for more “give”, not only extending the life of the heel, but also cushioning the step for the shoe’s wearer.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Heel Covers?

  • Extends Life of Heel – What could be more rewarding than your favorite shoes lasting longer than you thought? Heel covers can actually extend the life span of your heels. Since high heel fashion is timeless, they’re a worthwhile investment.
  • Saves Money – Heel covers help you save money in the long run, because your favorite black, red, nude, and white heels will stay intact and looking like the day you bought them. No more last-minute runs to the mall when you need a pair to match tomorrow’s outfit.
  • Reduces Slip Risk – No more slipping and embarrassing yourself on the dance floor. The heel cap covers will give you the grip you need to enjoy yourself without concern.
  • Prevents Damage – Now you can be sure that your heel is safe from harsh surfaces like gravel, as well as dust, grime, salt, water and such harmful properties that can literally kill any beautiful heels.
  • Makes High Heels More Comfortable - Certain heel covers preserve the shape of your shoe or even make walking in them more comfortable. That's a benefit we can all get on board with!
So what do you think? Will you be purchasing high heel covers to help keep your stilettos last longer? You get them in different shapes, sizes and colors, so you can get them according to your dress or the function that you may be attending.

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Why Should You Take Steps to Protect Your High Heels?

You know that moment when your outfit has almost completely come together and you are looking fabulous? And you're like:

And then you go to grab the final piece of your ensemble (your high heels), only to find that they're tattered and torn with busted up heels? And you're like:

Avoidance of this face is exactly why you should take steps to protect your high heels and stilettos from damage. Your shoes can make or break your entire look, leaving you exuding confidence or laziness... your choice.

Taking a few minutes to put a little love into your favorite high heels can not only ensure you are looking your best, it can help you avoid stress and, most importantly, prevent you from shelling out more money for heels. Women spend anywhere from $30 to $1,000 on each pair of high heels they purchase, and some women have quite large collections. Why allow damage to these priceless possessions, especially when their style is so timeless? Take these steps to protect your high heels.

How to Protect Your High Heels

  1. Waterproof Them - If your shoes are made of leather, find an appropriate protectant and waterproofer to ensure you don't incur damage from weather. Any non-silicone spray or solution that is made for leather should work. Keeping them waterproofed also prevents stains from mud, oil and other grime you encounter on a day to day basis. If your shoes aren't made of leather, they are often made of a material that is already waterproof, so you may just want to find an appropriate conditioner to keep that material looking as good as new.
  2. Wash Them - Don't have a knight in shining armor to lay his jacket down at every puddle you encounter? Not to worry, that only exists in fairy tales. If you get oil, grime, lipstick, dirt or other undesirables on your kicks, don't panic. But you should try to wash them as soon as you have a free moment. Just take a cloth and leather cleaner and scrub as needed. Once they're dry, reapply the waterproofer.
  3. Repair Any Damage - If you've been walking over uneven or gravel surfaces of late, your shoes may have chips or cracks. If you're really unlucky, your heel could even snap. Not to worry, shoes can be repaired by a cobbler. This solution is obviously more suitable for pricey high heels vs. discount, off-brand ones. In either case, don't wait too long to get your heels repaired. 
  4. Wear Protectors - You could also make a small investment in your heels (we're talking less than $4 a pair) and purchase high heel protectors. They consist of a color-matching heel cap to protect your heel from damage, as well as a sole pad which softens your step. At this price, it's worth buying a few in bulk to have on hand when you buy new heels. They also make great gifts for bridal events and even stocking stuffers!

That moment when you find just the right heels in your closet and they look fabulous because you've taken care of them.

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Top 20 Designer High Heel Brands

A few times a year, we tune in to watch as our favorite stars and celebrities hit the red carpet for their night of showcase and honor. A night where we watch them accept awards and nominations for the best of the best in entertainment. We ooh and ahhh over what designer they’re wearing as they hit the red carpet, and in our head (or perhaps out loud) give our thumbs up or down of approval.

A big part of that 'yay' or 'nay' vote is the shoes. At least, it is for us. So, we've compiled a list of nominees for Top 20 Designer High Heel Brands. We've chosen one shoe that exemplifies each brand. Here goes.

Top Designer High Heel Shoe Brands
  

20. Burberry www.burberry.com | Founded in the mid 1800's, Burberry is one of the oldest designer fashion brands still hot on the market. These riveted check pumps are a pointed toe pump with classic Burberry check print, embellished by a brass buckle at the toe. Anyone with any shoe sense would be able to match up this shoe with its iconic brand. 

19. Alexander Wang www.alexanderwang.com | One of the youngest designers on our list, Alexander Wang is an American-born rising star whose downtown style draws inspiration from the 1990's grunge scene. These high heeled boots have 90's written all over them. A high heel doesn’t just have to stop at the heel. These black leather boots by Alexander Wang travel up your fashion forward legs, end with back knee cutouts, and accented with gold knee snaps. It’s a great high heel boot for all occasion; speaking success and style to all who watch.

18. Sophia Webster www.sophiawebster.com | A relatively new shoe designer, Sophia Webster has already seen tremendous success. These high heels embody all the gorgeous aspects of a fabulous shoe: glitter, glam, black, and a bow tie in front. Highlights your ankles perfectly. 

17. Sergio Rossi www.sergiorossi.com Sergio Rossi's philosophy was simple: "Think of a shoe, not as a superimposed ornament, but as the continuation of the body". This turquose, geometric patterned pump with a pink patent leather toe and a red patent leather heel embodies that statement.

 

16. River Island www.riverisland.com | Rihanna may have just announced she will launch a fashion line through River Island, but it's been a global fashion icon for years. This sophisticated ankle high heel looks fabulous all year long. It’s covered ankle boot style with a high heel is a combo made in heaven. The rich blue color shocks and awes, and will turn heads everywhere you go.

 

15. Yves Saint Laurent www.ysl.com | He started his career working under Christian Dior, and ended up one of the most iconic fashion designers in history. This ankle strap sandal, featuring black suede and gold metallic leather, exemplifies Saint Laurent's style, which Catherine Deneuve once said was for "women who lead double lives.” 

14. Prada www.prada.com | For the bold and the beautiful,. Prada’s silk beaded purple high heel has intricate beading, height, and glam. With an ankle strap that secures your heel’s sexiness, it can be worn at a fab event, a night out on the town, or down the red carpet. 

13. Dolce & Gabbana www.dolcegabbana.com | Shoe Gods Dolce & Gabbana are an Italian fashion house with a highly recognizable name by most fashionistas. With this heel, they incorporate the historic art for of baroque into a black high heel. The gold scripted art with font strap provides a beautiful, elegant shoe for the most elegant of occasions. 

12. Manolo Blahnik www.manoloblahnik.com | Manolo Blahnik was already an international, award-winning fashion brand before Sex and the City made it a household name. Putting 50 Shades of Grey to shame, this shoe’s sexy grey style, cutouts, heights, and sophistication make this heel our choice for the list. Great to wear to the workplace, in the board room, or a day out shopping for the top trends in high fashion.

11. Jimmy Choo www.jimmychoo.com | Jimmy Choo is known for his eye-catching dramatic designs, loved by all, worn by only the bold. These purple feathered high heels have double ankle straps for extra drama; just leading your eyes to the exotic feather tassels in the front of this stunning shoe. The photo doesn’t do this regal purple shoe justice.

10. DKNY www.dkny.com | Once in a while we need to step away from the glitz and glam of our favorite designer heels and wear something a bit more, low key? If you’re looking to do this; then the more simple, yet just as fabulous high heel by DKNY will do that for you. A great neutral brown for all seasons, this heel acts as a default when you still want to be stylish but keep a low profile.

9. Miu Miu www.miumiu.com | Born out of the Prada family, Miu Miu is a high fashion brand this list should not overlook. This shoe highlights neutral glam just the way we like it: mauve colored suede shoes with front straps and peep toes. The glittery gold back and heels steal the show as you strut your stuff to your red carpet event.

8. Valentino www.valentino.com | Valentino Garavani is a historic fashion icon who definitely makes our list with his black ankle high heeled boots. This shoe can take a cute little black dress in a completely different direction. Wrapped from ankle to tow with studded straps, this modern shoe turns heads and takes names.

7. Alexander McQueen www.alexandermcqueen.com | McQueen is known for his ability to mix strength with fragility. This white high heel exemplifies this, with elegance and a clean, sleek fashion statement. A white high heel that can be worn again and again at an array of occasions.

6. BCBGMAXAZRIA www.bcbgmaxazria.com | Elegance and femininity meets high fashion at BCBG. This shoe is stunning with an elegant lattice style, complete with gold heel stems. These little numbers would be beautiful for any spring event, including a wedding.

And the Top Five High Heel Shoe Designers...

5. Badgley Mischka www.badgleyandmischka.com | American fashion designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka have had great brand recognition through the years. In 2006, Sharon Stone replaced Mary Kate and Ashley Olesen as the spokesmodel. Then, their dress was worn by Charlotte York on Sex and the City. These shoes are one of our favorite styles most recently seen amongst brides and bridesmaids alike. Fun and frilly, this shoe speaks beauty, elegance, and chic perfection.

4. Aperlai www.aperlai.com | Alessandra Lanvin (married to a descendant of the famed Lanvin fashion house) is the creator of Aperlai, a red-carpet favorite. Aperlai is known for providing us with the freshest of high fashion, and this in-season mint heel is no exception. This shoe has the classiness of a sleek black high heel, the trendy mint color, and professional style, allowing you to wear this high heel anytime, anywhere.

3. Brian Atwood www.brianatwood.com | Nude high heels can get boring quite easily. But not this style by shoe legend Brian Atwood. Atwood is known for his playful and even flashy style, with heels that strike the perfect balance of "too much" and high fashion. Nude and black sophistication go hand in hand with these heels, creating a bold and daring high heel that everyone loves. Destined to continually top the shoe charts year after year.


2. Kate Spade www.katespade.com | Kate Spade is a New York based designer who started her career with handbags and now is a fashion staple for a multitude of items. Every woman needs a pair of basic black high heels. Kate Spade (as usual) goes the extra high heeled mile and brings us a classic black heel that can be worn anytime, anywhere and will never lose it’s timeless, fashionable elegance. A staple for every woman who has a love of shoes and fashion.

1. Christian Louboutin www.christianlouboutin.com | Are you seeing red more frequently on the soles of your favorite red carpet heels? That's Christian Louboutin's signature style jumping out at you. Louboutin is a favorite Parisian designer whose shoes top all sorts of lists. Louboutin’s “ Cinderella” high heel brought tears to many when this style was released. It was designed with love, inspiration, and the hope that every woman would feel like a princess in these. Intricately decorated with crystals, beading, and butterflies, this shoe is one that will never lose it’s place in fashion history. It surpasses all standards and is fit for a princess. We’re obsessed. 

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