When you are trying to choose high heels, fashion is important. So is the season and the occasion, if you are shopping for a look for a special event. If you're on your feet a lot, or are trying to make a prudent purchase, comfort and practicality may be issues as well.
However, what most shoppers want from their heels is flattery. Flattering shoes need not be the most expensive or the most up-to-the-minute to make you look good. They need only suit your body type. Here's a guide to choosing flattering heels:
Voluptuous legs
Curvy legs are not currently the fashion ideal. They have been though, and will be again. Meanwhile, choose heels that will visually diminish your curves. Never wear stilettos. The contrast is too great between the skinny heel and your curvy calves. Instead, wear a substantial heel on a shoe that is mostly closed.
Have femininity in detail. Perhaps some curved stitches, tucks, even cut-outs or two-tone effects. If you see a dark heel with pink, beige, or ivory around the vamp, snap it up. Voluptuous women can wear red shoes on occasion, or shiny black patent with toe cleavage, but you might not want to wear such heels to work.
Short legs
No matter what is in fashion, never wear ankle straps. Instead, wear a showy buckle or a pretty bow down near your toes, or some other eye-catching detail. It will draw the eye all the way down your foot, visually extending your leg.
Another trick is to wear shoes in a color that is close to your own skin tone, so they don't cut off your legs with strong contrast. If you must wear black or dark brown shoes for social reasons, wear sheer hose in a matching tone, to decrease the leg-shortening contrast.
Pointy shoes also draw the eye down, although they may not be the most comfortable choice. For the most lengthening look, choose a medium to high heel.
Chunky ankles
If your ankles are thick, wear chunky heels for visual balance. If you crave a stiletto, choose a stiletto boot, and practice walking in it before you wear it anywhere.
Your legs are also flattered by cut-outs. Do not wear ankle straps, because that draws the eye right to your ankles. Instead, wear mules if you can master walking in them, or sling backs.
Strappy sandals are nice in summer, perhaps with a slight platform to balance your look. Never wear any shoe, whether a heel or not, that laces up past your ankles.
Buying heels
Try them on, and walk in them. It is nearly impossible to buy flattering heels online, unless you already know the kind you want.
Do not wear new heels all day right after you buy them. Keep a pair of TOMS or other slip-ons in your desk or car, in case you need to walk a long way. Heels can be cruel beauties.
Carefully chosen heels will upgrade your legs immediately. The right ones can make you feel glamorous, frivolous, and just like Cinderella.
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