SHOE THERAPY

SHOE THERAPY

from the article 'Don't Suffer in the Name of Looking Good'

Shoe Therapy

They dress up any outfit and give you gorgeous gams, but why do heels have to hurt so much? Here's a little secret: They don't. Noelle Cellini, a personal stylist in Chicago and owner of My Best Foot Forward, a wardrobe consultant services company, offers these shoe-wearing solutions:

• Go for platforms instead of stilettos. "This extra bit of support under the ball of the foot and toes not only helps add height, but gives you something more to stand on than just regular high heels," she says.

• Don't be afraid to go bigger. Vanity sizing also exists in shoe shopping. "Many high-end designer shoes are narrower and smaller, so don't get discouraged if you wear a different size with different brands," she explains.

• Time your shoe-shopping right. "Go at the end of the day. This is when your feet are the biggest and you will truly be buying for your size -- and comfort!" says Cellini.

Fab Feet Treats

Of course, sometimes the most painful heels are worth it (like those killer red pumps that always manage to turn heads). Here are some ways to alleviate the discomfort. Knowing when to get off the dance floor, well, that's up to you…

• The Band-Aid Friction Block Stick looks sort of like deodorant stick, but works to lubricate the back of your feet to reduce friction on your skin and ward off shoe bites or blisters.

• Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles are specifically created for 2" or higher high heels. They provide a little extra cushion, so it takes some of the weight off of the ball of your foot.

Both products are available at most drug stores.

MY THOUGHTS

If you love wearing heels and you don't have the products mentioned in this article I'm sure you would be looking for them.