Shopping for heelsāwhether online or in-storeārequires different skills than shopping for other clothing items. A beautiful heel that doesn't fit properly or is poorly constructed will end up unworn at the back of your wardrobe. Knowing what to look for, what questions to ask, and what red flags to avoid can save you money and disappointment while building a collection of heels you'll actually wear and love.
This guide shares the knowledge that comes from years of heel shopping, helping you become a more informed buyer whether you're browsing in a boutique or scrolling through online listings.
Quality Indicators to Look For
Quality construction affects both comfort and longevity. Learning to spot quality markers helps you distinguish between heels that will serve you well and those that will fall apart after a few wears.
Sole Construction
The sole is the foundation of any heel. Look for:
- Leather soles: More breathable and mouldable than synthetic, though they require more care
- Quality rubber: For synthetic soles, look for durable rubber rather than thin plastic
- Even attachment: The sole should be evenly attached with no gaps or visible glue
- Proper thickness: Soles that are too thin wear quickly and offer little cushioning
Heel Attachment
The heel should feel solid and secure, never wobbly:
- Wiggle the heelāthere should be no movement or give
- Check where the heel meets the sole for gaps or poor finishing
- Examine the heel tip for secure attachment
- On stilettos, look for quality metal reinforcement
Upper Materials
The upper (the part that covers your foot) reveals much about quality:
- Genuine leather: Breathes, moulds to your foot, and ages beautifully
- Quality synthetics: Should feel supple, not plasticky or stiff
- Even stitching: Stitches should be straight, even, and without loose threads
- Clean edges: No fraying, rough edges, or visible glue
Bend the shoe gently at the ball of the foot. It should flex there (where your foot naturally bends when walking) but remain rigid in the arch. A shoe that bends in the arch lacks proper support and construction.
Interior Finishing
The inside of the shoe matters as much as the outside:
- Smooth linings without rough seams that could cause rubbing
- Cushioned footbed, especially under the ball of the foot
- Properly finished edges where lining meets upper
- Quality insole that won't shift or bunch
Getting the Right Fit
Fit is perhaps the most critical factor in heel satisfaction. A shoe that's wrong for your foot will never be comfortable, no matter how well-made.
When to Shop
Feet swell throughout the day and in warm weather. For the most accurate fit:
- Shop in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest
- Wear or bring the type of hosiery you'll wear with the heels
- If shopping for special-occasion heels, consider the likely conditions (warm venue, long standing)
Fit Checkpoints
When trying on heels, assess these areas:
- Length: About 1cm of space between longest toe and end of shoe
- Width: The widest part of your foot should align with the widest part of the shoe
- Heel: Your heel should sit snugly without slipping when you walk
- Arch: The arch of the shoe should support your natural arch
- Toe box: Toes shouldn't touch the end or feel squeezed together
- Walk on hard flooring if possible (carpet masks fit issues)
- Walk for at least 5 minutes, including standing still
- Try stairs if available
- Sit down and stand upāthe shoe shouldn't slip off
- Any significant discomfort after 5 minutes will only worsen with extended wear
Shopping Online vs. In-Store
Both shopping methods have advantages. Understanding the pros and cons of each helps you shop smarter.
In-Store Advantages
- Try before you buyāassess fit and comfort immediately
- See true colours and materials in person
- Get assistance from sales staff
- No waiting for delivery or processing returns
Online Advantages
- Wider selection, including styles not available locally
- Easy price comparison across retailers
- Access to customer reviews and photos
- Shop at any time from anywhere
- Often better sales and discounts
Online Shopping Tips
When buying heels online, protect yourself:
- Know your measurements: Measure your feet in centimetres and compare to size charts
- Check return policies: Only buy from retailers with free, easy returns
- Read reviews carefully: Look for comments on sizing (runs large/small) and comfort
- Study photos: Look at customer photos if available, not just professional shots
- Note materials: Ensure descriptions specify actual materials, not vague terms
Be cautious of: prices that seem too good to be true, vague or missing material descriptions, no return policy or very restrictive returns, poor quality product photos, and retailers with no verifiable contact information.
Understanding Sizing
Heel sizing is notoriously inconsistent. Understanding how sizing works helps you navigate this challenge.
Size Conversion
Australian sizing differs from US, UK, and European systems. A general guide:
- AU sizing is generally the same as US sizing for women's shoes
- UK sizing is typically 2 sizes smaller (AU 8 = UK 6)
- EU sizing uses a different scale (AU 8 ā EU 39)
However, these conversions aren't universalāalways check the specific retailer's size chart.
Brand Variation
Even within the same sizing system, brands vary significantly. Some consistently run small, others large. When exploring a new brand, read reviews specifically for sizing feedback or order two sizes to compare if returns are free.
Width Considerations
Standard width doesn't suit everyone. If you have narrow or wide feet:
- Seek out brands that offer width options
- Read reviews from customers with similar foot widths
- Consider styles that naturally accommodate width variation (strappy sandals, adjustable closures)
Value vs. Price
The cheapest heels aren't always the best value, but neither are the most expensive necessarily worth the price.
When to Invest
Spend more on heels you'll wear frequently:
- Everyday work heels that see regular use
- Classic styles in neutral colours that work with many outfits
- Heels for foot health (proper support, quality construction)
When to Save
It's okay to spend less on:
- Trendy styles that may not last multiple seasons
- Statement pieces for occasional wear
- Heels for specific one-time events
- Styles you're trying for the first time
Building a Versatile Collection
Strategic shopping builds a collection that covers all your needs without endless pairs you never wear.
Essential First Heels
If you're just starting or rebuilding your collection, prioritise:
- A nude or neutral pump that complements your skin tone
- A classic black heel (pump or block heel depending on your lifestyle)
- A comfortable block heel or wedge for extended wear
Expanding Your Collection
Once you have essentials covered, add:
- Evening/statement heels for special occasions
- Casual wedges or block heels for weekends
- Ankle boots for cooler months
- Fun colours or prints to add personality
Before committing to new heels, ask yourself: "What would I wear these with?" If you can't immediately think of at least three outfits, the heels might end up unworn. Build your collection around your actual wardrobe and lifestyle, not fantasy versions.