Good News For People Who Love…High Heels

You love them, can’t live without them. High heels date all the way back to around 3500 BC, and have been confounding women for about just as long. We would love to wear them all the time, but our feet have a different idea. So FPD consulted with The Today Show foot expert and acclaimed NYC Podiatrist Dr. Suzanne Levine to get some options on looking chic, gaining some height, and not destroying our feet. We figured there has to be a way to have our heels, and wear them too…

This may come as no surprise, but wedges are one of your best bets when it comes to wearing heels. They’re not only easier to walk in, but they allow an even distribution of pressure on the foot. And with summer coming up, think of how cute these pairs will look with short shorts and flowy dresses. L-R: Lanvin Ankle Wrap Wedge with Python Platform, $1,400, LR X Suno Erin Lace-up Wedge, $645.

Platforms are a trickier matter. Though there is the solid base beneath the ball of the foot, don’t be seduced into wearing the highest heel possible. Go for 2- and 2½-inch heels. L-R: Prada Platform Mary Jane Pumps, $950, Belle by Sigerson Morrison Neutral Leather Platform Sandal, $412.50.

For the woman who goes for designer four-inchers no matter what, a lot will depend on your foot type. The more you know, the more your feet will thank you. For example, women with wide feet, Prada is your best friend. Above (L-R), Vitello Butterfly Wedge, $695, Platform Slingback Sandal, $720, Rainbow Cage Patent Pump, $795, and Elastic Crisscross Sandal, $595. Have narrow feet? Thank your lucky stars, because Louboutins were made just for you. Below (L-R), Deroba Denim Wedge Ankle Boots, $595, Martel Platform Sandals, $895, Laser-Cut Leather Slingbacks, $795, and Toutenkaboucle Strappy Canvas Sandals, $995.

Now that you know a little more about being good to your feet, there are also some basic exercises you can do to make strutting in those heels even easier. Dr. Levine suggests picking up pencils with your toes, and walking on your heels, the forefoot, and on the balls of your feet. You can also roll a ball back and forth under the ball of your foot.

And as for the bad rap high heels get, we saved the best news for last: high heels aren’t really that bad for you! Those pesky varicose veins don’t have anything to do with wearing heels. There are even some conditions, like plantar fasciitis, that involve high heels in the treatment. It’s all about moderation. Flats today, your favorite pair of heels tomorrow. It’s a win-win.

-Kaci Hamilton

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