IF THE SHOE FITS WEAR IT... A GUIDE TO PICKING THE MOST COMFORTABLE HIGH HEELS!

Narrow heels and stilettos look best on people with a more slender build, and with fashions that are lean and slimming. People with heavier builds should look at platforms or thicker heels to keep things looking balanced and proportional.

1. Remember that the more open the shoe, the less support it will provide, with the least supportive shoe being a thong type sandal. Make sure the outfit and the shoes match comfortably.

2. Due to the stresses of wearing heels, make sure that the shoe really fits! Take your time about trying them on and, once you have a pair that you like, spend some time in them in the store, perhaps even doing some shopping at the store in them, if appropriate. Shoes that seem comfortable at first may not be after a few minutes, or even an hour or two. Alternatively, check the exchange/return policy of the store before you buy, and wear your new shoes at home on carpets until you are sure they are comfortable and fit right. It is also important to test for comfortable heel height. Stand on the floor in the shoes with your knees straight. Now try to raise yourself on your toes so there's at least an inch of space under the heels. If you can't do that, the heels are too high, and you shouldn't wear them; you'll end up walking and standing with your knees bent.

3. Try to minimize the amount of time that you wear your high heels, especially if you are doing lots of walking. Most harm to feet, knees and back come from regular long-term use of walking in high heels. When you are done wearing your heels, spend a few minutes to give your feet a massage. Work your ankles in a few different directions and massage the arches. This will help to loosen any muscles that might have tightened or become strained from wearing the heels.

4. Styles with a slight platform under the toe area tend to be more comfortable as they minimize the angle and pressure on the ball of the foot.