You're Doing it Wrong: How to Make High Heels More Comfortable

Tricks to make stilettos easier to walk in

By Diana Nguyen Dec 02, 2015 12:22 AMTags
Gigi HadidSplash News

Let's be real: Flats are few and far between on red carpets. Not only do celebs love a good stiletto, but their heels also serve as major eye candy. Stuart Weitzman, Gianvito Rossi, Christian Louboutin—most red carpet staples are undeniably pretty…and can be oh-so painful. After a few hours, feet are aching and you're left wishing for a pair of $50 sneakers.

Stars suffer through this too, and though they may have stylists to help ease the discomfort, you have expert Lindsay Albanese to reveal their industry secrets.

Forgo the Blisters and Chaffing: "I swear by moleskin [strips or bandages]," said Lindsay. "It's what all the stylists and celebs use in the industry. Forget the Band-Aids…they always end up bunching up. Moleskin has a bit of padding and a super-sticky adhesive so it won't budge! You can stick it on your foot just like you would a Band-Aid or even line the inside of your shoes wherever it's rubbing or uncomfortable."

To Avoid Falling: "When you have slippery soles—you know when you walk on a slick surface and go, ‘Whoop!' while trying to regain balance—shuffle your feet a bit on cement or gravel," suggested Lindsay. "This will create little grooves [on the bottom of your shoes] so your heels won't slip when you walk." You can also use sandpaper, a nail file or something with an abrasive surface to scuff the shoe sole and improve traction. Of course, if you're trying to preserve any red-hued soles, spray hairspray on the bottom and let it dry. It'll create some grip for a short time.

For Maximum Comfort: "For long nights or days on your feet, I always add more comfort with Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel Insoles!" recommended the celeb stylist. Gels will absorb the shock. Pro tip: Go up a half size when shopping for heels. Your feet naturally swell up with a lot of activity, and squeezing in something too small is probably why you're feeling so much discomfort.