High heels have long been synonymous with elegance, power, and confidence. Whether you’re wearing them for a night out, a formal event, or just to add an extra touch of sophistication to your outfit, high heels can make a world of difference to your overall look. However, as many fashionistas know, wearing high heels isn’t always as comfortable as it seems.
What if there was a way to maximize both style and comfort without compromising your fashion goals? The good news is, there are underrated high heel moves that can completely change the way you wear them. These tricks might not be the first thing you think of when stepping into a pair of heels, but they can significantly improve both your experience and your look.
In this blog, we’ll explore 12 underrated high heel moves that are total game-changers. These tricks will help you walk with ease, improve your posture, and take your high heel styling to the next level.
1. Wear the Right Heel Height for the Occasion
Why It’s Underrated:
While sky-high stilettos look stunning, they might not always be the most practical choice, especially for long events or casual settings.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
Choosing the right heel height can drastically impact your comfort level and the overall vibe of your outfit. A lower heel or kitten heel can still look chic and polished while being far easier to wear than towering heels.
How to Style It:
- Kitten Heels for Daywear: Opt for kitten heels for daytime events or work. They’re cute, comfortable, and versatile.
- Block Heels for Comfort: Block heels are perfect for long hours on your feet and still offer height without sacrificing comfort.
Tip:
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different heel heights depending on the event. Sometimes, a subtle heel can be just as impactful as a higher one.
2. Choose Pointed Toes for a Slimmer Silhouette
Why It’s Underrated:
Most people go for rounded-toe shoes, but pointed toes are often overlooked when it comes to high heels.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
Pointed-toe heels help elongate your legs, giving you a slimmer and more graceful appearance. They create an illusion of height, which can complement your posture and make your entire look more sophisticated.
How to Style It:
- Pair with Skirts or Dresses: Pointed-toe heels work particularly well with skirts and dresses, as they emphasize the length of your legs.
- Opt for Neutral or Nude Shades: Nude or neutral-colored pointed heels blend seamlessly with your outfit, making your legs look even longer.
Tip:
Choose pointed heels with a slight arch or a manageable heel height for all-day wear without compromising comfort.
3. Use Insoles for Added Comfort
Why It’s Underrated:
Most people assume that insoles are only for flat shoes or sneakers, but they can be a game-changer for high heels as well.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
Insoles add extra cushioning, providing support to the arches of your feet. This reduces pressure on the balls of your feet, making it easier to wear heels for longer periods without discomfort.
How to Style It:
- Gel Insoles for Extra Cushioning: Choose gel insoles for maximum comfort. They are lightweight and discreet, making them perfect for high heels.
- Memory Foam Insoles: These insoles mold to the shape of your foot, giving you personalized comfort.
Tip:
Make sure your insoles are the right size for your shoes, and opt for ones designed specifically for high heels.
4. Avoid Wearing Heels Right Out of the Box
Why It’s Underrated:
Many people wear new high heels straight out of the box, which can lead to blisters and discomfort.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
Breaking in your new heels before wearing them out for long periods can significantly reduce discomfort. This allows the shoes to mold to your feet and soften the materials.
How to Style It:
- Wear Them Around the House: Try wearing your new heels around the house for short intervals to break them in before taking them out on the town.
- Use Shoe Stretchers: If your heels feel tight, use shoe stretchers to gently loosen them and make them more comfortable.
Tip:
Start with a soft, padded insole and wear socks with your heels while breaking them in to reduce friction and prevent blisters.
5. Choose High Heels with a Strap
Why It’s Underrated:
Heels without straps might look sleek, but they often lack the security needed for long-term wear.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
High heels with straps, whether they are ankle straps or more intricate designs, provide added support. They keep your foot in place and help prevent the shoe from slipping off your foot, reducing the risk of discomfort and injury.
How to Style It:
- Ankle Strap Heels for Stability: Ankle strap heels are stylish and practical. The strap secures the shoe, reducing the strain on your feet.
- T-Strap Sandals: T-straps add elegance while providing support, making them perfect for weddings or formal events.
Tip:
Make sure the straps are not too tight to avoid restricting circulation. Adjustable straps are ideal for finding the perfect fit.
6. Match Your Heel Color with Your Outfit
Why It’s Underrated:
People often focus on the color of their outfit or accessories but forget to coordinate their heels.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
Matching the color of your heels with your outfit creates a seamless, cohesive look. Neutral shades like nude, black, and beige are incredibly versatile, but a bold-colored heel can serve as an accent piece.
How to Style It:
- Nude Heels for a Streamlined Look: Nude heels make your legs appear longer and blend in with your skin tone, giving you an elegant, polished appearance.
- Color Pop with Bright Heels: If you’re wearing a neutral outfit, use a brightly colored heel as a statement piece to add a fun pop of color.
Tip:
Make sure the heel color complements the tone of your outfit to create balance and cohesion in your look.
7. Opt for a Platform Heel for Extra Comfort
Why It’s Underrated:
Many people shy away from platform heels because they think they look bulky or outdated.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
Platform heels help balance the height of the heel with added support. The platform at the front of the shoe gives your feet more surface area, distributing the pressure more evenly across your foot, which reduces foot fatigue.
How to Style It:
- Casual or Formal Styles: Platform heels come in both casual and formal styles. Pair them with jeans or dresses for a chic, comfortable look.
- Choose a Moderate Platform: A moderate platform (rather than a chunky one) offers the right amount of lift while keeping the heel height comfortable.
Tip:
Choose platform heels with a sturdy sole for better grip and stability when walking.
8. Consider Heel Shape for Comfort and Style
Why It’s Underrated:
We tend to focus on heel height rather than the shape, but the shape of the heel can significantly affect comfort and style.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
Heel shape can dramatically alter the stability and overall feel of your shoes. A thicker or more structured heel provides more support than a skinny stiletto, making it easier to walk and stand in heels for longer periods.
How to Style It:
- Block Heels for Comfort: Block heels are a great option for those who want comfort and stability without sacrificing style. They provide more surface area and balance.
- Cuban Heels for a Retro Look: Cuban heels offer a comfortable and stylish alternative to stilettos, especially for more vintage-inspired outfits.
Tip:
When choosing heels for everyday wear, opt for a block or wedge heel for better stability, while stilettos can be saved for special occasions.
9. Wear Heels with Dresses That Hit Above the Knee
Why It’s Underrated:
People often pair high heels with long skirts or dresses, thinking it’s the best way to show off the shoes.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
High heels work beautifully with shorter dresses that hit just above the knee. This combination allows your heels to shine and elongates your legs, giving you a more flattering, streamlined silhouette.
How to Style It:
- Mini and Midi Dresses: Try pairing your heels with mini or midi dresses for a chic and modern look.
- A-Line Skirts and Heels: Pair an A-line skirt with heels to add height and maintain a balanced, feminine shape.
Tip:
Ensure the dress length complements your heel height. A mini dress with stilettos is classic, while a midi dress with block heels gives a more relaxed vibe.
10. Choose Heels with a Soft Toe Box
Why It’s Underrated:
The toe box in high heels is often overlooked, but a tight or uncomfortable toe box can ruin your heel-wearing experience.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
A soft toe box, or one with a bit of extra room, provides comfort and prevents foot pain, especially during prolonged wear. This allows you to wear your high heels without squishing your toes or causing blisters.
How to Style It:
- Go for a Rounded or Slightly Square Toe: A rounded or slightly square toe box gives your toes enough room to move and reduces the chances of discomfort.
- Opt for Soft, Flexible Materials: Leather or suede heels tend to have more give, providing a more comfortable fit.
Tip:
Avoid overly pointed heels if you’re looking for comfort. Choose shoes with a relaxed toe box that don’t restrict your feet.
11. Break in Heels with Thick Socks
Why It’s Underrated:
Breaking in heels can feel like a hassle, but doing it wrong can lead to blisters and pain.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
Wearing thick socks inside your heels can stretch out the shoes slightly and mold them to the shape of your feet. This trick helps break them in without causing discomfort.
How to Style It:
- Wear Socks with Your Heels Around the House: Walk around in your heels with thick socks to gently break them in.
- Use a Blow Dryer: If your heels are too tight, use a blow dryer to warm up the material and then wear them with thick socks to stretch them.
Tip:
Make sure the socks are not too thick to avoid damaging the shoes.
12. Add a Heel Protector for Long-Term Wear
Why It’s Underrated:
Heel protectors are often overlooked, but they can help maintain the longevity of your high heels.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
Heel protectors shield the heels from wear and tear, keeping them looking brand new. They also offer extra grip and reduce the risk of slipping on smooth surfaces.
How to Style It:
- Use Heel Caps for Stilettos: Heel caps can help protect your stiletto heels, especially when walking on pavement or uneven surfaces.
- Choose Transparent Caps: For a discreet look, go for clear heel protectors that blend seamlessly with your shoes.
Tip:
Use heel protectors for more formal events to ensure your shoes remain in top condition.
Conclusion
These 12 underrated high heel moves are total game-changers, offering a combination of comfort, style, and confidence that every high heel wearer deserves. Whether it’s choosing the right heel height, mixing different shapes, or using insoles for added support, these tips will make you feel more comfortable and fashionable in your favorite heels. So, next time you slip into a pair of high heels, try these tricks and watch your entire experience transform!