ASK A STYLIST

How to pick the right heels

DEAR BRONWYN,

I want to start wearing heels but I find that after ten minutes in them I’m in agony. Any tips of shopping and wearing them? Jane

HI JANE, 

I’ll let you in on a secret -not all heels are uncomfortable. It’s important to get into heel wearing slowly, as you need to train your feet to get used to being on a slope. When shopping for your first pair of heels, comfort is key, so look for a shoe with a solid block heel as opposed to a needle thin stiletto. Make sure your first heel height is no more than seven centimetres, and avoid flimsy thin straps – you need lots of support around your foot and ankle.

Pump or court styles are great for beginners, as are platform styles as they give the illusion of being high without scrimping on comfort. Wedges are another great option for beginners as the large surface area makes then easier to wear.

When trying on shoes, make sure your toes aren’t squished and have room to wiggle about. Walk about the shop for five minutes in them. If you feel any pinching, tight spots or rubbing then put them back on the shelf – they’re only going to get worse with time. Gel cushion inserts by Scholl can help ease tired balls of the feet, and always pack a pair of flats in your bag for emergencies when you’re first starting out. As you get confident walking in heels, you can graduate to higher and crazier styles, but remember – comfort is always the most important factor.

Got a style dilemna? Ask our resident Stylist Bronwyn a question on twitter @shopwhatsnew with hashtag #askbronwyn or email [email protected]