Yes, you heard me right – models use heel hacks to make their lives easier while they’re strutting down the runway in high heels that would make most people’s feet hurt just by looking at them.
So if you’re ever feeling overwhelmed by your towering stilettos, or just want some tips on how to make your favorite heels more wearable and comfortable, read on for some fashion insider tricks from the experts themselves: models!
Go Neutral With Your Model Heel Options
Every model should have a go-to pair of black heels and a go-to pair of nude heels. You’ll need these for casting calls and auditions, and unless your designer is providing shoes for the runway you’ll need them there, as well.
While the two color options are standard, you may have some wiggle room with heel height, style (block vs stiletto), and open or closed toe heels. It’s always good to have options and make your designer’s life easier!
NEVER a Wedge (unless it's what your designer wants)
Wedges are not meant to be strutted down the catwalk. They are a cheat heel; you won’t look as professional or capable if you show up to an audition in a wedge instead of a classy heel.
And though they may be comfortable, they’re not fooling anyone. Wearing wedges is like saying “I give up, I can’t walk in heels.” We all know the truth: you just don’t want to bother trying.
So leave the wedges at home and reach for a pair of heels that will show everyone that you mean business when you walk into the room or down the runway.
Nervous about not walking in a wedge? Practice practice practice! And I’ve linked some beautiful model heel options with various heel heights at the bottom of this post.
Ankle Straps Make Any Heel Easier to Walk In
If you want to make heels easier to walk in, consider purchasing pairs with ankle straps. Ankle straps help keep your foot in place, which makes it easier to walk in heels.
Even in shoes you’ve practiced and practiced in, there’s still the possibility of stepping out of them accidentally if they aren’t secured on your foot. That’s why heels with ankle straps are my choice for the runway – I won’t have to worry about wobbly ankles or having a Cinderella moment and losing my shoe!
Shoe Sizing; Yes, It's Worth Mentioning
You may have noticed celebrities like Megan Markle wearing heels a 1/2 size or even a full size too large. This is said to help prevent their feet from swelling and forming blisters, which does sound tempting.
Most podiatrists would not recommend doing this for sustained periods of time because it really isn’t good for your feet long-term.
Additionally, a shoe that’s too loose can be more dangerous to walk in (see my very important thoughts on heels with ankle straps above).
So in summary, wear the correct size shoe for your feet. Just because the royals do it doesn’t mean a runway model should.
These are the oversized shoes Meghan Markle wore November 2017 when she and Prince Harry announced their engagement.
Extra Padding = Extra Comfortable Heels
Try on lots and lots of heels before purchasing a quality pair or two to keep. You want them to be enjoyable and to be able to strut your stuff in them and walk well. But as we all know, high heels can only be so comfortable and sometimes even the best options need a little help.
For an extra level of comfort, get cushion inserts or insoles that you can stick under the ball of your foot. It shouldn’t be visible when you’re wearing your heels and can give you some extra longevity when you’re on your feet for long periods of time.
These invisible high-heel inserts on Amazon are great!
Write Your Name in Your Heels
Backstage at fashion shows and photo shoots can get crazy. Make it easy for you to tell your heels apart from the sea of black and nude heels that several models will bring by putting name somewhere inside the shoe.
Psst – this also helps if your shoes try to *ahem* walk away from you with someone else…
Model Darci Clark in Kansas City shares this tip and more in this Instagram Reel. Go check it out and give her a follow for more great model advice!
Shop My Model Heel Recommendations for Runway Models
So next time you’re getting ready to wear your favorite pair of heels, keep these six tips in mind. And if you still find yourself struggling with blisters and sore feet by the end of the night, don’t worry – I won’t tell anyone. What are some of your own tricks for making high heels more bearable? Share them in the comments below!
If this post helped you prep your heels for your next runway show or casting call, please share it on Pinterest!
