How to Choose Comfortable yet Stylish Women's Shoes
The right shoes can make or break an otherwise cute outfit. Whether it's classic black pumps for work, metallic strappy sandals for going out or adorably detailed flats for everyday wear, finding stylish and comfortable shoes can be a chore. Walking, dancing or standing in stylish, but uncomfortable, shoes can be painful for your feet. Choosing comfortable and stylish women's shoes requires creativity, an eye for detail, patience and quite a bit of shopping.
Instructions
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Flip through several recent copies of women's magazines that focus on fashion or celebrities. Clip out any examples of cute shoes that celebrities or models are wearing that you like. Make sure to clip out the Appendix at the back of the magazine telling you where to buy those shoes from.
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Research your selected shoes, or any similar looking shoes, on popular shopping websites. Many of these websites have user reviews of women's shoes that can provide you with an accurate reading on how comfortable each shoe is. Make sure to read these reviews thoroughly, as every foot is different and one person might have problems with a specific shoe while the majority do not. Choose several pairs that are cute and have good reviews for comfort.
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Look up the closest local shoe or department stores in your area. Call each store to find out if they have your chosen shoe styles in stock. If the store has your shoes in stock, and in your size, go to that store.
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Go to your local shoe store and get a salesperson to accurately measure the length, width and shape of your foot. Knowing these attributes will allow you to choose a shoe that fits right and is highly comfortable. In fact, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association, 88 percent of women wear shoes that are too small, and up to 90 percent of foot pain is caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes.
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Try on each pair of shoes that you have picked out from your local stores. Make sure they fit well and are made with good quality materials. Look for cracked leather or poorly sewn seams on shoes to tell if they are quality products. Look for shoes with shock-absorbent soles and good padding for added comfort. Make sure to walk around the store in each pair for at least several minutes. Take special note of how your toes fit into the shoes, as cramped toes can cause blisters or even painful hammertoes.
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Look at yourself in the mirror while you are wearing each pair of shoes. If they are comfortable, take a long look at the front, side and back of the shoes while you are wearing them. This can help you determine if they look good and will go well with a number of outfits. If you like the look of them, and they are still comfortable after several minutes of wear, buy them.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't be afraid to ask fellow shoppers what they think of your shoes if you are having trouble deciding. Many avid shoe shoppers wouldn't mind helping you out with your decision.
If you are buying heels, consider buying heels with a platform, as these shoes alleviate some of the pressure put on the balls and toes of your feet by normal heels.
Do not buy shoes that do not fit properly. Ill-fitted shoes can cause injuries if worn often.
References
- Photo Credit Creatas/Creatas/Getty Images
