How To Stretch Out Heels If They're Too Tight

I have a very deep relationship with heels and, despite swinging between love and hate, we are committed to each other for life. The first time a particularly stubborn pair of heels started to break my heart and blister my feet, I immediately learned how to stretch out heels and reminded myself everything will be OK soon! If you, too, have a particularly wonderful (and cruel) pair of heels, fear not. The hacks below will have you rocking your favorite stilettos as comfortably as possible in no time.

Before you try to stretch out your heels, you first need to accept that you might actually need a different size. I know how easy it is to become emotionally attached to a pair of heels, but sometimes, they're just not gonna work. Beyond a little tightness, if you're experiencing a lot of sliding, agonizingly painful walking, consistent blisters, overhanging toes, improper heel placement, and too-tight straps, a new pair of better-fitting heels to start with might be a wise move.

If you're confident your only challenge is tightness, then the hacks for stretching out your heels should totally work just fine. Roll up your sleeves and get to it!

1. Purchase A Shoe Stretcher

Stiletto Stretcher, $29.95, Foot Petals

One of the easiest ways to DIY stretch out shoe sis by purchasing a stretcher specifically designed for stilettos. Simply leave the stretcher in your heels overnight to loosen things up.

2. Try The Ice Trick

Wardrobe consultant Allie Brandwein shared an ingenious tip with SheKnows. "If your shoes are a little too tight ... Fill a zip lock bag halfway with water and place the bag inside the shoe. Put the shoe in the freezer overnight and voilà! Your shoe stretches. The water freezes and expands the shoe." It's legit that easy.

3. Hit Up A Professional

If you happen to own a fair of super swanky designer heels, you might want to consider going to a professional cobbler to stretch them out so you don't accidentally damage the shape of the shoe with a DIY method.

4. Grab Your Blowdryer

Ionic Blowdryer, $19.99, Revlon

A bit unconventional, this DIY hack form RamshackleGlam is one of my favorite. First, a few layers of your thickest socks on, then jam your sock-covered feet into those tiny heels. Next, flex your feet while you blast the heels with your blowdryer on high.

5. Tape Your Toes

Surgical Tape, $8.91, Micropore

If your stretched out shoes still feel a little tight, you can always tape your third and fourth toes together with nude tape. This helps take the pressure off your toes and the ball of your foot so things stay more comfortable.

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Images: Courtesy of Brands; Fotolia