A pair of heels you can wear all evening has three things going for it: the right length and width for your foot, a heel height you are used to, and a heel shape that suits where you are going. Designer label or not, a shoe that slips at the heel or pinches at the toes will hurt by the second hour.
Choose the occasion first. A wedding with a lawn reception needs a different heel from a dinner in a restaurant, and a night of dancing needs something steadier than a cocktail party where you will mostly stand. Then choose height and style, and spend most of your attention on fit.
Heel heights and what they suit
| Height | Usual name | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Up to about 5 cm | Kitten or low heel | Work, long days, weddings with lots of standing |
| About 5 to 8 cm | Mid heel | Most parties and evenings out |
| About 8 to 10 cm | High heel | Dinners, events with seating |
| Over 10 cm | Very high, often with a platform | Short events, photos, special occasions |
A platform under the toe reduces the real slope of the foot. A 12 cm heel with a 3 cm platform feels closer to a 9 cm heel, which is why platform sandals can be easier to wear than their height suggests.
Heel shapes and styles
- Stiletto: thin and elegant, but the least stable and the worst on grass, cobbles and gaps in decking.
- Block heel: wider and steadier; a good choice for outdoor weddings and dancing.
- Kitten heel: short and slim, comfortable for long days.
- Wedge: the heel runs the length of the sole, spreading the load; good for summer events.
- Court shoe or pump: closed toe and heel, the classic smart shoe.
- Slingback: a strap holds the heel in place, useful if courts slip off your heel.
- Strappy sandal: an ankle strap adds security; check the straps do not dig in.
Browse the high heels range for courts and evening styles, and sandals for strappy and block heel sandals.
Getting the fit right
Many designer heels are sized in European numbers. Common conversions for women’s shoes are:
| UK | EU |
|---|---|
| 3 | 36 |
| 4 | 37 |
| 5 | 38 |
| 6 | 39 |
| 7 | 40 |
| 8 | 41 |
Half sizes such as EU 36.5 fall between. Brands vary, so check the shop’s size chart, and read whether a style is described as narrow or true to size.
When the shoes arrive, try them on later in the day, when feet tend to be slightly larger, and wear the tights or bare feet you plan to wear on the night.
- Length: there should be no gap behind the heel and your toes should not press against the front.
- Width: the widest part of your foot should sit at the widest part of the shoe without bulging over the sole.
- Heel grip: walk a few steps; if your heel lifts out, try a half size down or a style with a strap.
- Balance: stand still for a minute. If you feel tipped forward or wobbly, the heel may be too high or too thin for you.
Wearing new heels in
Wear new heels around the house for short spells over a few evenings, on carpet if you might return them. This softens leather, shows up any rubbing spots and gets you used to the height. Gel heel grips and ball of foot cushions can help a slightly loose or hard shoe.
On the day, carry a pair of foldable flats if you will be on your feet for hours. Alternating heels with flatter shoes through the week is kinder to your feet than heels every day, and if heels regularly cause pain, it is worth speaking to a podiatrist.
For the rest of the outfit, see the guide to choosing a party dress, or browse all shoes and the wider footwear section.
Caring for heels
- Replace worn heel tips early; walking on the metal pin damages the heel and is slippery.
- Store heels with tissue or shoe trees inside, in a dust bag or box, so the shape holds.
- Protect suede with a suede spray before the first wear, and brush it when dry.
- Wipe leather and patent with a soft damp cloth and let them dry away from radiators.
Quick checklist
- Pick the heel for the occasion: grass, dancing or seated dinner.
- Choose a height you are used to; platforms make tall heels easier.
- Convert EU sizes and read the shop’s size chart.
- Try them on later in the day with the tights you will wear.
- Check length, width, heel grip and balance.
- Wear them in at home for a few evenings.
- Carry flats for long events.
Common questions
Which heels are best for an outdoor wedding?
Block heels, wedges and platforms spread your weight and do not sink into grass the way stilettos do. Heel protectors that clip over a thin heel are another option.
Should I size up in heels?
Not automatically. Heels that are too long let the foot slide forward and the heel slip out. Get the right length, then fix small gaps with heel grips or a strap style.
How can I make heels more comfortable?
Choose a lower or thicker heel, a platform, or a style with an ankle strap. Cushioned insoles, wearing them in at home and taking breaks during the evening all help.
