When I bought my first pair of pumps, I didn't think any comfortable ways to wear high heels existed. I became pretty doubtful and just stopped wearing heels altogether, but it was most likely because I was guilty of all the common high heel mistakes that were ruining my feet and my shoes. I was in college at the time and had no idea how to walk in them. I also just so happened to go to a university that was pretty hilly, so I just stuck with flats as much as I could. I loved my pumps and heeled ankle booties, but I just couldn't get the same shoe comfort from wearing them like I did my favorite pair of Nikes.
So, what did I do? I tried to fix the issue, because clearly there's something special about buying a new pair of heels. My inner fashionista was telling me not to give up on my Steve Madden strappy sandals and the rest of my non-used heel collection. Whether they're open-toed, platforms, or boots, a pair of fresh heels can totally transform your ensemble. Even though I hated wearing them, I realized this and was determined to correct the mistakes I was making and finally enjoy walking in heels!
If you're anything like me and believed that your heels were the problem, I'm here to tell you that it might just be you.
Here are some common mistakes you may be making when wearing heels:
You're Buying The Wrong Type Of Heel
Chunky Heel Ankle Boots, $20-$45, amazon.com
What I had in my 2012 closet collection is totally different from my 2015 edition. Back then, I just looked at what was pretty and bought it impulsively. That's not me anymore. After burning and wasting many dollars, I realized that I was buying the wrong type of heel for my lifestyle. Now, I'm all about efficiency. From personal experience, I've learned that stacked heels, whether it's a chunky ankle boot or a platform, are the most comfortable heels to walk in.
You've Never Learned How To Properly Walk In Heels
Did you know that you should use the "heel to toe" method when walking in heels? It'll help you move your hips when you walk, which also makes heels easier to walk in, not to mention, it'll make you look like a Victoria's Secret angel on the catwalk! Watch Michelle Phan's tutorial above to learn a few other pointers and remember — practice, practice, practice!
You're Buying A Pair That's Too Big For Your Feet
Dr. Scholl's DreamWalk Ball of Foot Cushion, $5.47, amazon.com
I've made this mistake many times before. I would think, "Oh, it's fine, a little room to breathe is totally cool." Wrong. Not only do you not get the right support for your foot, it also just feels extremely dangerous. You don't want to chance breaking an ankle. Glamour suggests buying insoles or foot cushions to make up for that extra space. It'll also make your heels way more comfortable to walk in.
You're Trying To Squeeze Into A Pair That's Too Small
While heels that are too big are salvageable, shoes that are too small are not as easy of a fix. Hairpin suggests stretching them out by placing a bag of water inside them and sticking them in the freezer. The ice will then stretch out your too-small heels. Will it work? Maybe. Worth a shot, I guess!
You're Not Taking Them Off
No matter how comfortable your heels are, let's face it: They're heels and they're going to hurt eventually. The key is to take breaks and to not wear them for too long. Every couple of hours, take them off and stretch your toes. Your feet need a break!
You Only Wear Narrow Or Heels With Pointed Toes
Pointed toed heels are gorgeous and all, but they're not practical for everyday wear if you're a major heel aficionado. Opt for open-toe heels or heels with a square or round toe. This will allow you to stretch your toes while wearing your heels, and will also prevent your feet from feeling smushed or forming calluses.
Peep Open Toe Booties, $32-$38, amazon.com
You're Overthinking It
When it comes down to it, the easiest mistake with wearing heels is overthinking it. Strut with confidence and it'll just happen naturally. Release your inner Kendall Jenner!
Images: Courtesy Of Brands
