7 Steps Teaching You How to Shop for High Heels

There are a few simple ways to take the mystery out of shopping for the always sexy high heel. Here are a several tips teaching you how to shop for high heels, and make it fun to boot!

1. Face it, high heels can be painful. Stiletto heels are always stylish but they can cause a lot of foot trouble such as fallen arches, bunions, and corns. You don't have to throw them out just to save your feet and you don't have to spend a small fortune on designer shoes either. Knowing how to shop for high heels doesn't mean spending hundreds of dollars to find the right one.

2. If you are slender, then a stiletto is for you, especially if you are wearing a slimming outfit. However, if you are bigger then you might find platforms or wider heels to give you support. Also, these will keep your entire body more balanced.

3. A black shoe or boot is always in style. But don't be afraid of trying bolder colors. There are many styles to try from boots, to sling backs, open-toed to pumps. But always remember that the more open a shoe is, the less support it will provide for you. Wear a shoe that will match the type of outfit you have picked out. Knowing how to shop for high heels means knowing your own foot and what will work vs what won't.

4. Take the time to get your new heels properly fit. People that know how to shop for high heels understand what a proper fit feels like. Just because you like them does not always mean they are right for you. A simple test is to stand in the heels keeping your knees straight. Then go up on your toes. If there is at least an inch clearance between the heel and the floor, you are okay with them. If not, then get a shorter heel otherwise you will go around with your knees always bent. Walk, bend, and sit while wearing your shoes. If the shoe hurts, it probably will always hurt so try something else.

5. Once you get home, practice moving with your new high heels on. You will need to walk more slowly and turn more carefully. This is not hard but with a little practice you will look so much more elegant. Keep your heel straight when you walk so as not to turn your ankle. You can actually fall off your heels. This can lead to injury and embarrassment. Do not try to walk like you are rushing through the grocery store. And get used to the fact that your steps will be shorter. In fact, the higher the heel, the shorter your steps will be. Knowing how to shop for high heels includes knowing how to pick out the right shoe.

6. If you are planning to do a lot of walking, you will not want to wear to high of a heel. This is where the most damage can come from. If you do find yourself in heels and walking a lot, when you get home, take off the shoes and treat yourself to a foot rub. Don't forget to massage the arch as this will help to relax any muscles that may have been strained. Knowing how to shop for high heels includes knowing how to take care of your feet.

7. Another tip when buying a heel is to look for shoes that have a small platform just under the toes. These styles will give more support and relieve some of the pressure that is being put on the ball of the foot.

Using these simple steps on how to shop for high heels, you can now feel confident the next time you go out to the mall to purchase your next pair of high heels. Good luck!