It’s a Shoe Thing - Does the Shoe Fit?

Where do I begin? I will admit it – I have big feet. So getting proper fitting footwear is a challenge. Our feet also tend to be wider than cis women’s. That’s problem #1. Problem #2 for bigger feet is that women’s shoes are not an on the shelf item. Problem #3 is that buying online has its ups and downs. My first purchase of high heels I was told to go 1-1/2 to 2 sizes larger in a woman’s size. Unfortunately, I could actually walk out of them. Not good.

One other thing I found out about human foot anatomy – whichever handed you are, left or right, that side is larger than the other. Now for you ambidextrous one’s I have no clue! So getting proper measurements is the key. I actually bought a Brannock device, like you would see in shoe stores (well, like you used to see). It measures men on one side and women on the other. Best time to measure is later in the day, so your feet are at their largest. Also, measure both feet and of course, use the larger of two for your size. Remember, European and UK sizes are different, just like with clothing. I find a woman’s 12 ww (extra wide) works for me. DSW has larger and wider shoes. I also like Torrid’s shoes. They offer a large variety of boots, shoes, sandals and stylish clothes for plus size women.

Now the hard part – what style, what color, etc. The basics are black, white and taupe. Models wear taupe a lot, as they change clothes many times and taupe is fairly neutral. Heel height is important too. Start low and work your way up. Heel shape must also be considered. Spike heels are sexy, but easily break off or get caught in pavement cracks. Not to mention easily sink in soft ground. I recommend buying block heels for your first pair of heels. Open toe shoes are good for showing your painted nails. And always remember that girly shoes are not for track and field activities!

I have practiced walking slower and knees closer together. I have used lines on a tiled floor to guide me, walking heel-toe to avoid the tendency of stepping like a horse. Women also gently swing their arms, as well as their bum when walking. I have also noticed that I walk more upright in heels. Many women also tend to hold one arm 90 degrees. Probably a habitat from carrying a handbag, and nowadays a cellphone – lol. Above all else, get comfortable footwear. It will save your freshly painted piggies!

A very dear cis women I love dearly told me when I asked her about wearing high heels (thinking she’d tell me about making her taller). She said it made her feel sexy! I immediately understood her. Benita teaches skin care in a beauty school located in Florida. From her I also learned about nail care and polishes. She is an encyclopedia on feet!

Speaking of feet, the type of shoe covering is also to be considered. Suede looks great, but is not for wet weather. Leather can develop mold and look blotchy. Saddle soap is a good Leather cleaner. Shiny shoes need polishing. Zippered footwear or any zippered garment for that matter needs lubing. I use a (don’t laugh too hard!) hair wax on a swab. Oils can stain. There are also non-staining sewing machine oils. Just use sparingly. One last experience – I have 6″ spiked heels! Makes me feel like I’m going to fall forward and I walk like a prancing horse 🐎 ! Watch out furniture and pets! Happy shoe shopping girls 🥰

Fran

Fran LaRosa

I've been dressing actively for 3 years. I've even built a large closet for my girly clothes. I'm addicted to shopping for girly things. Love to share info on dressing and makeup.