The art of the everyday heel

Whether it’s joggers, leggings, sweatpants or pajamas in public, we have a bit of an American style crisis. Dressing up has become an obligation reserved for work and work-related events like fundraising dinners and the occasional family get-together. Black tie events are slowly disappearing. We see sweatpants replacing jeans as the standard for casual wear. The proliferation of “travel frumpy” is the worst offender. 

As fewer Americans are expected and opt to dress up regularly, our public social interactions have lost much of the respect we used to take for granted. Somewhere along the way, we’ve lost the romance of dressing well and the respect it conveys for ourselves and others. I think bringing back heels could help turn the tide. 

Somehow, almost against my better logic, wearing heels triggers something womanly within me, and I’ve embraced it. The art of the everyday heel isn’t about obligated, uncomfortable footwear but about expressing feminine confidence. 

From special occasion to everyday confidence 

The art of the everyday heel started for me when I took my first women’s salsa “heels” class. I quite literally spun, Susy-Q’ed, and sweated in rhinestone stiletto-type shoes. After two years of classes, I now sport heels like a pro. Those dance classes helped me embrace my femininity through athleticism and the mental challenge of learning everchanging routines. I felt connected to my body, and more graceful, energetic, and beautiful. Dancing helped me merge this newfound confidence into everyday life. I started wearing heels for any occasion that I wanted to make special and feel feminine.

How to find the perfect, everyday heel 

While dance class helped me get much needed practice wearing heels, the art of the everyday heel is really about making elegance versatile and easy. You can dress like a lady, command respect, and look put together without breaking the bank or trying too hard. The tips and recommended heels highlighted below are foolproof for walking, dancing, and whatever else life throws at you. 

Espadrille sandal

A well-placed wedge can save your arches and is way more comfortable for walking. Here’s a little trick for spotting a walkable heel: Gently push the back of the shoe where it supports your ankle, known as the counter, and watch how it moves. If the heel stays steady without excessive wobbling, you may have a winner. 

Check out Zappos or 6pm.com for online shopping options. 

Platform or block heel

If you want comfort, try a platform or a block heel. The chunky quality of a platform shoe creates a stable surface so the ball of your foot isn’t killing you at the end of the day. Less intense than a platform, a block heel is cute and comfortable for weddings, going to church, and won’t sink into grass! 

Your local Marshalls or TJMaxx are great places to start looking for your best everyday, affordable heels. Keep an eye on local thrift stores for a cool vintage look. If you’re looking for a retro vibe, Modcloth also offers unique options.

Kitten heel

If you want a more subtle approach, try a kitten heel. Even at small heights, this heel is a class act. A small heel in a pump, slingback, or sandal creates a nonchalant, elevated look for everyday wear. Very 90s and minimalist chic, a kitten heel looks as lovely as an open toed sandal or a closed mule. It’s great for work or a night out! 

The Naturalizer offers several varieties.

Heeled boot

Investing in a nice heeled boot is a good move for the fall and winter months. Keep it casual for daily wear, or dress it up depending on the occasion. For dressing up, add a higher heeled boot paired with a nicer blouse, skirt or dress. If you’re keeping it casual (think Cindy Crawford off-duty model style) by mixing black, brown, and denim. Add jeans, a jean jacket or a sweater to your lower heeled boot for a simple but put-together look.

Treat yourself like a lady (because you are one)

Sometimes, feeling beautiful is as simple as slipping on your favorite pair of shoes. The art of the everyday heel is about reclaiming a little romance, respect, and confidence. You might stand a little taller, inspire someone to hold open a door, or simply enjoy the pleasure of getting dressed with a little extra height in your step.