Are you tired of wearing the same old heels that hurt your feet after a few hours? Do you want to add a little more height and style to your wardrobe? Look no further!
Platform heels, with their distinctive thick soles and elevated status, offer height and a fashion statement to anyone daring to wear them. This guide is designed to usher you into the world of platform heels, ensuring that you step out in style while prioritizing comfort and safety.
Whether you’re preparing for a glamorous night out at a formal event or simply want to add some pizzazz to your day-to-day attire, understanding how to wear platform heels can enhance your confidence and add an edge to your ensemble.
Here, we’ll explore essential tips on choosing the right pair, maintaining balance and comfort, and styling them with your wardrobe to create head-turning looks.
What are the Benefits of Platform Heels?
Aside from their eye-catching appearance, platform heels offer various other benefits, making them a popular choice for fashion enthusiasts. These include:
- Added Height: This is the most obvious benefit of platform heels. They can add anywhere from 2 to 6 inches to your height, making you appear taller and slimmer.
- Improved Posture: The elevated sole of platform heels helps distribute your weight more evenly, improving your posture and reducing strain on your feet and back.
- Versatility: Platform heels come in various styles, from casual to formal, making them suitable for various occasions and outfits.
- Comfort: The thick sole of platform heels provides more cushioning and support for your feet than traditional heels, making them more comfortable to wear for longer periods.
- Stability: The wider sole of platform heels offers greater stability and balance, reducing the risk of tripping or falling while walking in them.
Once you’ve experienced the benefits of platform heels, you’ll never want to return to traditional heels again.
What Will You Need?
Before we get into the how-to’s of wearing platform heels, here are a few essential items you’ll need to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
- The Right Pair of Platform Heels: Choose a pair that fits well and feels comfortable. Make sure to try them on and walk around in them before making a purchase.
- Gel Inserts or Cushioned Insoles: These can provide extra comfort and support for your feet, especially if you’ll be wearing the heels for an extended period.
- Band-aids or Moleskin Padding: To protect your feet from blisters or rubbing against the shoes.
- A Non-slip Grip Spray: This can help prevent slipping on smooth surfaces, ensuring better stability while walking.
- A High-quality Foot Cream: Keeping your feet moisturized and free of calluses is essential for maintaining comfort while wearing platform heels.
Once you have these items, you’re ready to rock your platform heels in style.
10 Easy Steps on How to Wear Platform Heels
Step 1. Choose the Right Pair.
Selecting the perfect pair of platform heels is crucial for your comfort and look. Start by looking for a pair that complements your personal style. Whether you are drawn to sleek leather, vibrant prints, or embellished designs, ensure that the heels you choose resonate with your fashion sense. Comfort is key, so opt for a size that fits your feet snugly without being too tight.
Consider the heel height and platform thickness — a moderate height may be more manageable if you’re not accustomed to wearing heels. Additionally, pay attention to the width of the heel and the platform; a wider base will generally provide better support and balance, making the heels easier to walk in. Lastly, try them on and walk around to test their comfort level before deciding.
Step 2. Practice Walking at Home.
Before taking your platform heels out for a spin, getting comfortable walking in them at home is important. Start by standing in your heels and getting a feel for your weight distribution from toe to heel. Practicing walking on different surfaces (carpet, hardwood floors, tiles) will help you adjust to how the heels feel under various conditions.
Try walking in straight lines, turning corners, and if possible, practicing on stairs. Focus on maintaining a straight posture with your shoulders back and your head held high. Initially, your stride may be smaller, and that’s perfectly fine. With practice, you’ll gain confidence and find the stride that works best for you in platform heels.
Step 3. Strengthen Your Ankles.
Wearing platform heels requires strong ankles to maintain balance and prevent injuries. Incorporate ankle-strengthening exercises into your routine to prepare your feet for the added height. Simple exercises such as ankle circles, heel lifts, and toe points can significantly improve your ankle stability and flexibility.
Perform these exercises regularly, ideally daily, to build the necessary strength in your ankles. This will make walking in platform heels more comfortable and enhance your overall foot health and reduce the risk of falls or strains.
Step 4. Mind Your Posture.
A key aspect of walking confidently in platform heels is maintaining good posture. This not only helps in achieving balance but also exudes confidence. Keep your back straight, your chin up, and your shoulders back. Engage your core muscles as you walk; this will assist in stabilizing your body and distributing your weight evenly across your feet.
Remember, the proper posture in heels begins with a straight spine. When you walk, think about elongating your body upwards, as if a string pulls you from the top of your head. This mindset will help you maintain an elegant and poised posture, making walking in those platform heels look effortless and graceful.
Step 5. Start with Short Durations.
Wear your platform heels for short periods to avoid overexerting your feet and ankles. Begin by wearing them around the house for an hour or two to help your feet get accustomed to the feel and height of the heels. Gradually increase the duration as your comfort and confidence grow.
This approach will minimize the risk of discomfort and injuries, allowing your feet and ankles to adapt gradually to the added height and weight distribution changes. By starting with short durations, you’ll also be able to identify any potential issues with fit or comfort early on, allowing for adjustments or adding cushioning or support as needed.
Step 6. Choose the Right Surfaces to Walk On.
When first wearing platform heels, be mindful of the surfaces you’re walking on. Smooth and flat surfaces like hardwood floors or well-paved roads are ideal for practicing. Avoid uneven terrains such as cobblestones, gravel, or grass, as they pose a higher risk of tripping or twisting an ankle.
When encountering stairs, remember to take them slowly and use the handrail for additional support if available. As you become more confident in your platform heels, you’ll be better equipped to handle a variety of walking surfaces. However, always exercise caution and prioritize your safety, especially in slippery environments with poor lighting.
Step 7. Pay Attention to Your Stride.
When walking in platform heels, your stride will naturally differ from that of walking in flats. It’s important to pay close attention to the length of your steps and your pace. Opt for shorter, more deliberate steps rather than trying to take your usual stride; this will help you maintain balance and agility.
Additionally, walking slightly slower can prevent you from losing your footing and give you more control over your movements. Your heels should touch the ground first, followed smoothly by your toes, allowing for a graceful roll through the foot. Adjusting your stride and pace can make walking in platform heels a seamless and elegant part of your movement repertoire.
Step 8. Gradually Increase Difficulty Levels.
As you grow more comfortable and confident walking in platform heels on flat and smooth surfaces, gradually introduce more challenging conditions to your practice. This could involve walking on slightly uneven terrains, such as a soft carpet or gentle slopes, to enhance your ability to maintain balance and control.
Additionally, experiment with wearing your platform heels during various activities around the house, such as doing household chores or moving up and down stairs more frequently. This step-wise escalation allows your body to adapt to the demands of walking in heels in real-world scenarios, ensuring that you’re as prepared and poised as possible when you step out.
Step 9. Practice Regularly.
Consistency is key in mastering the art of walking in platform heels. Incorporate regular practice sessions into your weekly routine, aiming for at least a few times a week. This will help reinforce your balance and posture and build the muscle memory required for graceful walking in heels.
Variations in practice—such as changing the time of day, the duration of your practice, or even the specific heels you wear—can help keep the experience fresh and challenging. Over time, you will notice significant improvements in your comfort, confidence, and elegance while wearing platform heels, making each step feel as natural as walking in flats.
Step 10. Listen to Your Body.
It’s crucial to be mindful of the signals your body sends you when wearing platform heels. Discomfort, pain, or fatigue in your feet, ankles, or any part of your lower body signifies the need to rest and allow your body to recover. Ignoring these signals can lead to long-term injuries or worsen existing conditions.
If you experience consistent discomfort, consider evaluating the fit of your heels and the need for additional support, such as insoles, or consult a professional for personalized advice. Remember, the objective is to look good in platform heels and ensure your physical well-being.
By following these ten steps, you’ll be well on your way to confidently walking in platform heels with elegance and poise. With patience, practice, and good posture, you can conquer any challenges posed by the added height and weight distribution of platform heels.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Start with a Low Platform: If you’re new to platform heels, begin with a lower platform. This will help you adjust to the height and feel more comfortable as you walk. A gradual increase in height can prevent discomfort and improve balance.
- Practice Walking at Home: Before taking your platform heels out, spend some time walking around your home. This practice can help you get used to the feel of the heels and improve your stability and confidence in moving around.
- Invest in Quality Insoles: Adding quality insoles to your platform heels can significantly enhance comfort. Look for options that provide extra cushioning and support, especially in the ball of the foot, to make wearing heels for extended periods more bearable.
- Choose Shoes with Ankle Support: Platform heels with straps or a design that offers ankle support can make a big difference in wearability. This extra support helps prevent your foot from sliding forward and reduces the strain on your ankles and legs.
- Mind Your Posture: Wearing heels changes the alignment of your body. Be mindful of keeping your back straight and your shoulders back. Proper posture helps you look more poised, reduces the strain on your lower back, and helps you balance better while walking in platform heels.
With these additional tips and tricks, you’ll be able to rock your platform heels with confidence and comfort.
5 Things You Should Avoid When Wearing Platform Heels
- Ignoring Shoe Fit: Never compromise on the fit of platform heels. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters and discomfort, while those that are too loose can lead to instability and increase the risk of tripping or spraining an ankle.
- Skipping Break-In Periods: Jumping straight into wearing new platform heels for an extended period can result in painful experiences. Gradually breaking in your heels by wearing them for short periods at home can help avoid discomfort.
- Opting for Extreme Heights Without Experience: While towering platforms may look appealing, starting with excessively high heels without prior experience can lead to falls or ankle injuries. It’s safer to gradually increase height as your comfort and confidence grow.
- Wearing Them on Unsafe Surfaces: Be cautious of wearing platform heels on slippery, uneven, or soft surfaces. These environments can challenge your balance and make falls more likely.
- Forgetting to Rest Your Feet: Prolonged wear of platform heels without giving your feet a break can lead to foot pain and other issues. Ensure you rest your feet and switch to more comfortable shoes as needed to give your feet a reprieve from the strain of heels.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can minimize discomfort and risks while wearing platform heels.
What Pants to Wear With Platform Heels?
The versatility of platform heels makes them a great option for various outfits, including pants. Here are some ideas on what types of pants pair well with platform heels:
- Flared Jeans: The combination of flared jeans and platform heels creates an effortlessly chic look with just the right amount of retro vibes.
- Wide-Leg Pants: Wide-leg pants can balance out the height of platform heels and create an elongated silhouette.
- Cropped Pants: Cropped pants allow you to show off your platform heels while also keeping things trendy and sophisticated.
- High-Waisted Pants: High-waisted pants are not only flattering but also work well with platform heels, especially if they have a wide-leg or flared cut.
- Skinny Jeans: Contrary to popular belief, skinny jeans can also look great with platform heels. This pairing creates a slim and sleek silhouette that elongates the legs.
Ultimately, the best pants to wear with platform heels are those that make you feel confident and comfortable. Experiment with different styles to find what works best for you.
Do Platform Shoes Make You Look Taller?
Yes, platform shoes can make you look taller. The elevated sole of platform heels adds height to your overall appearance, making you appear taller and more elongated. However, keep in mind that the added height also changes your posture and may require some adjustment in how you carry yourself while wearing them.
Additionally, choosing the right outfit, such as high-waisted pants or skirts, can also contribute to the illusion of height when wearing platform heels. So not only do these shoes add physical height, but they can also enhance your overall appearance and confidence. Overall, platform heels are a great option for those wanting to add some extra height to their look.
Conclusion
In conclusion, how to wear platform heels successfully combines style with practical considerations. It’s about starting with a manageable height, practicing your walk, and ensuring the right fit and comfort through quality insoles and appropriate ankle support.
Pairing your heels with the right pants—from flared jeans to cropped trousers—enhances your overall look and ensures you make the most out of these versatile shoes. By avoiding common pitfalls like neglecting shoe fit and overestimating your tolerance for heel height, you can enjoy the added height and confidence boost without compromising on comfort or safety.
Remember, the key to rocking platform heels lies in balancing fashion with functionality, ensuring you not only look fantastic but also feel good while strutting your stuff.
