I love shoes. Heels in particular, and often my shoes are my ’statement’ item. (Yes, they are sayin’ something. What? I don’t know, but you will definitely hear them coming) However, with my legs I have to be cautious of the type of shoes I buy and how I wear them. Like jeans, some shoes will suit you and others will not. You have to consider the length and shape of your legs, ankles, and calves; as well as the shape and size of your foot. Here are my tips to finding the perfect pair.

 Skinny/straight legs

Your perfect pair:

• Strapped. Straps and detailing give your legs shape. Be cautious around the ankle though, as a strap that is too thick or bulky can make your legs look skinnier.
• Dainty. Slim legs look best in shoes with a slim silhouette. Chunky shoes can be overpowering
• If you are wearing a heavy heal, ensure that your entire ensemble reflects the volume or you will look disproportionate.
• Boots should not be too wide at the top, have structure and be able to stand up on thier own, as you may not have enough leg to keep them up.
• Horizontal lines will widen
• Thin calves and ankles will look bigger in flatter shoes.

Wide Ankles/ Defined Calves

Your perfect pair:

• Heels. Heels will lengthen and slim the leg.
• Pointed or peep toe.
• Boots should be wider at the top and preferably have vertical lines or stitching, this gives a slimmer appearance.
• Chunky heels
• Avoid ankle straps if you have large calves. Straps shorten the length of your calves and when you shorten an area, you also widen it.

Petite/Short Legs

Your perfect pair:

• Heels will elongate your legs, even flats should have a slight elevation
• Strapless. Straps will cut your legs off, unless they are flesh tone, making your legs appear even shorter
• Boots that can be tucked into jeans, make your legs appear to go on forever.

Long Legs

Your perfect pair:

• Rounded toe
• Flesh tones will elongate, so look for shoes with color.
• Strapped. Straps at the ankle create a breaking point for the eye

Wide Feet

Your perfect pair:

• Enclosed to provide support. Wide feet in strappy sandals are like the muffin top of shoes.
• Pointed or extended toe
• Wider heel, it counterbalances
• Diagonal lines

Narrow Feet

Your perfect pair:

• Narrower heel
• Horizontal straps, lines and stitching. (placing a horizontal line on a narrow area shortens and widens it. )
• 3D details, like buckles and bows.
• Rounded or square toes.

Rules of thumb

• Vertical lines lengthen, horizontal lines shorten
• Flesh tone elongate
• Flats widen and shorten
• Heels narrow and elongate
• You may fall into more than one category ie – petite/short and skinny,