In order to best assist you in choosing your most flattering shoes, we best start with an anatomy lesson! Here’s a diagram to help:
And, now for the assistance. If you have:
Thick Ankles - Wear a flat or slim mid-high heel with a low vamp and pointed toe box to slim the look of your ankles. Steer clear of ankle straps and ankle booties. They add visual weight.
Shorter Stature or Short Legs - Follow the same rules as above except, those heels, I hate to say it 'cause I adore a sky high heel however; no higher than 2 -3", anything taller will make you look way out of balance.
Curvy or Thick Legs - Balance and visually slim your legs with a wedge or block style heel paired with a low vamp and pointed-toe box.
Long Legs - Your most flattering shoe has a kitten, wedge or block heel, a mid-high vamp, a rounded toe box and a T or ankle strap. Of course, a shoe with just a couple of these features will benefit you as well.
Small Feet - I recommend a flat or kitten heel with a low vamp and pointed toe box.
Large and/or Long Feet - Wedge or block heels nicely balance larger feet. For a long foot, try a mid vamp with a rounded or square toe box.
Wide Feet - Your best look will be a high heel and low vamp with a pointed toe box.
Narrow Feet - Opt for a slim mid-high heel, with a high vamp and ankle strap. If you also have thin legs and build, a T-strap or ankle strap is a flattering look paired with a high vamp. These styles will look best on you with a round or square toe.
As an accessories designer and personal stylist, sharing tips for how to dress your best is one of my favorite topics, so here are a few bonus lessons for ya:
Want the look of a longer and/or slimmer leg? Wear a shoe color that matches your skin tone. Alternatively, matching your shoe color to that of your pants also creates the same effect. If you are choosing a pointed toe, look for ones that are only slightly pointed. Something more severe can take on a costumed look. Eh-em....I Dream of Jeannie.
Where are all my petite ladies at? Listen up! Steer clear of severely rounded toes, flats and heels. They can visually shorten your stature and appear juvenile. Also, stray from block heels which can cause your legs and stature to look stocky. It has been said, “the higher the heel the closer to heaven”, however, ultra high heels on a petite gal simply looks out of proportion (And cause a forward pitch that can wreak havoc on your back.) Embrace your stature and opt for heels no taller than 2 - 3” inches.
And one little caution.....don't wear shoes that cause you pain (no matter how cute they are!) If your feet are miserable, then it will show through in your attitude and altitude, 'cause you'll be hunched over in pain! (If not at the time, later on down the road.Trust me on this!) Remember, the goal here iis to look AND feel fabulous!
Educated choices create flattering looks. If you are just now joining us, then you may be interested in:
The Best Necklines for your Size and Shape
How to Wear a Scarf to Accessorize your Personal Style
Five Fast and Free Ways to Refresh your Style
Have a burning style question? I’d love to answer them here on the blog! Comment below or message me at Paula@PaulaParisotto.com