"While fashion trends come and go in a flash these days, one constant seems to be the height of the heels on our, well, heels - high, higher and vertiginous. So whether you're a seasoned stiletto gal or a fresh-faced foot fashionista-in-training, here's 10 tips to ensure you last longer than 10 minutes in your strapping, sexy and sadistic new shoes:
1) Make sure they fit firmly - and properly. It sounds basic, but lust can often blinker our perspective when flashing the plastic on a fab new pair of Blahnik's finest. Too tight, you'll be in pure hell in minutes (and on a fast track to bunions); too loose and you risk serious ankle injury. Either way it's not worth your money or the risk.
2) Look for chunkier heels and concealed platforms - these up the stability and wearability factor.
3) Ignore the fashion editorials and do not wear stockings or socks with strappy heels - this will eliminate the ability of your toes to get a 'grip', which is integral to maintaining your stability. Stockings + strappy, open-toed heels = accident waiting to happen.
4) Confidence is key - think how awkward teenage girls look in 3" plus heels - like newly born giraffes. Lean back, stand tall, chest up (not out), lower stomach muscles slightly contracted to support your lower back - and stride, from the hip.
5) Be a little strategic - there's no shame in wearing little fold-away flats or ballet slippers til you reach your destination (or like me, just around the corner - after all, you don't want to spoil your entrance!)
6) Don't try to be a hero - if you know it's going to be a long night, take a Nurofen or other pain-blocker and keep extras handy.
7) Minimise the walking you have to do - it all adds up over the hours to quite a distance. Avoid stairs, and uneven surfaces.
8) Take the opportunity to link arms or hands with a friend or partner - the extra stability always helps!
9) Or just don't walk at all - put funds aside for cabs. If you think this is too extravagant, think about how how much your feet hurt last time you overwore high heels, and how much you would have willingly paid for a foot massage to relieve the agony. Would you have paid more for a massage than the cost of the taxi?
10) Nothing is less appealing than a woman in high heels who looks like she's suffering. You bought them, knowing just what you were getting yourself into. So if, despite all the above, you find yourself in pain, please don't moan and groan. Pride yourself on your stoic sensibility - and just smile."
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