How to walk in heels

While the weather may not be playing ball all of the time, the fashion world stops for nothing and is already in full spring/summer swing. This means but one thing – new season shoes! And whether you’re lusting after the Fifties-inspired stilettos, pop art styles or boho wedges championed on the s/s catwalks, these top tips from TK Maxx and some of their favourite fashion bloggers should help you walk tall.

Soft secrets

As it’s the balls of your feet that often bear the brunt of high heel pain, cushioned or gel pads can help relieve the pressure, meaning you can spend more time on the dance floor.

Sensible Shoes

To help balance your weight across the balls and heels of your feet, look for shoes with a built-up platform. As such styles can be heavier that other heels, practice walking in them first to make sure you’re comfortable carrying the extra weight. Rubbing and blisters are often caused by shoes slipping on and off your feet as your walk. Styles with little support can also strain muscles working overtime to keep them on your feet. Give your feet a break with buckled Mary Janes, heels with ankle straps or light summer boots.

The Back-up Plan

As appropriate a motto for fashion fans as it is for the Scouts: ‘always be prepared’. Save those killer heels for when they’ll make the most impact and slip on some foldable flats that can be stored in your handbag for the walk to work or when running for the night bus.

Tips from the bloggers…

“Some shoes are designed for photo shoots, but there’s nothing less alluring than seeing a girl hobble around the train station at 10pm on a Friday night in 9-inch heels. Decide which shoes are best for posing and which are practical for walking in.” Christine Macaulay - The Fabulous Times.

“Heeled boots are my staple – when shopping I look for a mid- to high-heel that’s on the chunky side for both comfort and style. Look for supple materials in an ankle boot to prevent painful rubbing and invest in leather as it’s hard wearing and suitable for the British weather.” Amanda Start - The Online Stylist.

“Know your limits with heels – kitten, stiletto, platform; it may be that one particular style works best for you. If you find that style easy to walk in, stick to it – there’s no point in buying heels that you struggle to walk in. The ultimate goal is to look cool, comfortable and confident and if that means you can’t wear anything higher than a kitten heel, so be it.” Muireann Carey-Campbell – Bangs and a Bun.

“I never find walking in high heels to be a comfortable experience, so I tend to suck it up, stand tall and strut through the pain.” Jen Holmes – A Little Bird Told Me.