The Secret To Walking Well In Heels

Forget diamonds.  Everyone knows that a good pair of heels is a girl’s best friend. Whether pumps, stilettos, booties, or wedges, we all have that one (or actually, more than one) pair of shoes we can’t live without. Still, despite our shoe addiction, one of the most Googled questions year after year is how to walk in heels.

As Fashionista reported, Google releases its list of the top trending fashion questions every year. And while the questions run the gamut from dress quandaries to how to DIY fray your jeans, “how to walk in heels” was definitely a query we did not expect to see. While there is no magic trick to ensure steady walking in heels, there are a few tips and tricks to help improve stability.

Follow these tried and true techniques if you want to turn your stumble into a graceful catwalk-worthy strut.

1. PRACTICE

It’s true, practice does make perfect. Before taking your new pumps out for a spin, take a lap or two around your apartment. The more comfortable you get walking in heels, the more natural you will look. Don’t underestimate the power of rehearsing. 

How to Walk Well in Heels
PHOTO: Fashion Jackson
A Gleaming Good Time Metallic Heel in 8.5
A Gleaming Good Time Metallic Heel in 8.5 34.99
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So Kate Pointy Toe Pump
Christian Louboutin So Kate Pointy Toe Pump 675
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Black Nicole Heel
Alice + Olivia Black Nicole Heel 295
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Nasty Gal Did It For the Pearl Vegan Suede Heel
Nasty Gal Nasty Gal Did It For the Pearl Vegan Suede Heel 78
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2. MAKE SURE THE SHOES FIT

It should come as no surprise that it will be easier to walk in heels that fit but this tip is often overlooked. Make sure your heels are not popping out of the shoe with every step. The better the shoes fit, the more natural you will feel walking in them, and your strut will, in turn, improve dramatically. So, even if you love the shoes but they don’t have your size, don’t waste your money.

Rockstud Patent T-Strap Pump, Poudre
Valentino Rockstud Patent T-Strap Pump, Poudre 995
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3. TAKE YOUR TIME

As you may have noticed from experience, walking quickly in heels looks awkward and leads to more unsteady hobbling–and sometimes even accidents. So, as Oscar De La Renta once said, “Walk like you have three men walking behind you.” Mmmmhmmm, ladies!

Suede Platform Sandals
Prada Suede Platform Sandals 790
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4. STAND STRAIGHT

Good posture conveys confidence–so if you are feeling unsure about walking in heels, try standing straight. This will help you mentally prepare to walk well and you’ll feel more confident and comfortable. Pro top: Avoid slouching by keeping your head high, eyes locked ahead, and your shoulders down.

Tribute Leather Platform Sandal Pale Rose
Saint Laurent Tribute Leather Platform Sandal Pale Rose 925
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5. TAKE SMALLER STEPS

It’s never a good idea to bite off more than you can chew, so if you aren’t comfortable in heels, start small. Pumps in general will shorten your stride so don’t expect to take the long strides you are used to. Instead, get ready to accept smaller, more graceful steps.

How to Walk Well in High Heels
PHOTO: Fashion Jackson
Grandiose Pointy Toe Boot
Stuart Weitzman Grandiose Pointy Toe Boot 525
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 Hazel Pumps
Sam Edelman Hazel Pumps 120
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Allie Leather Knot Sandal, Hibiscus
Gucci Allie Leather Knot Sandal, Hibiscus 795
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Carrson Sandal
Steve Madden Carrson Sandal 89.95
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6. WALK FROM HEEL TO TOE

We naturally walk from heel to toe. As such, walking in heels should be the same. Just because you’re wearing heels pups, it isn’t a valid reason to try walking by placing your whole foot down at once, or walking toe to heel. Stick to your instincts and walk in your natural stride.

 Tatiana Pumps
Nine West Tatiana Pumps 79
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 Darla Ankle Strap Platform
Steve Madden Darla Ankle Strap Platform 109.95
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Rousseau Suede and Satin l
Tory Burch Rousseau Suede and Satin l 150
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7. BREAK IN YOUR HEELS

You may have found that your favorite pair of heels has gotten more comfortable with more wear. Why? Because they are broken in and have molded to your feet. Pro tip: try wearing them around the house wearing thick socks. This can loosen a tight leather heel.

How to Walk Well in High Heels
PHOTO: Fashion Jackson
 Trish suede Platform Sandal
Michael Michael Kors Trish suede Platform Sandal 145
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Lisana Wraparound Sandal
Schutz Lisana Wraparound Sandal 189.95
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Hangisi Crystal Buckle Satin Pump
Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Crystal Buckle Satin Pump 965
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Doll 100 Suede & Patent Leather T Strap Pumps
Jimmy Choo Doll 100 Suede & Patent Leather T Strap Pumps 795
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Above all, no matter what kind of heels you wear, it’s very important to feel confident–so take time to break in shoes before taking them out for a night on the town. ($295)

What fashion questions did you Google the most this year? Sounds off below!