s
c
s
Home / Heel to Toe / Tagged: high heels
Heel to Toe
5 of The Highest Heels Ever Worn

High heels are a fashion essential, and they seem to be getting higher by the day. Gone are the days when the highest heels and stilettos were limited to 4-5 inches; today these are considered standard, with women moving up to 6, 7, 8 and even 18 ½ inches in some rare cases. If you thought you weren’t ready to go above 3 inches yet, then it is about time that you checked these famous designers and celebrities out who have taken high heels to a whole new level, and have the recognition of wearing the highest heels ever.

LADY GAGA

Lady Gaga is very close to becoming the ambassador for extreme high heels shoes. A complete look not only consists of wearing the right dress, the right hair and makeup but also wearing the perfect shoes... and in Lady Gaga’s case, the latter takes on epic proportions. There are numerous high heels to Lady Gaga’s credit, including the crystallized heels she wore to the 2010 Grammy awards, the 10-inch Alexander Mcqueen snake skin ankle breakers she wore to the MTV VMA’s 2010 and not to forget the sky-high heel-less heels. But the highest heels that she has worn so far have been the 24-inch heels she wore to the CFDA Fashion Awards.

Image Source: AcesShowbiz.com

NAOMI CAMPBELL

It is another story altogether when a super model falls-that even on the runway. But that is exactly what happened when Naomi Campbell dared to don 10 inch mock croc platforms on the runway in 1999. Well, who knew times would change so much that the 10 inch platforms will become the norm, but have to give her brownie points for trying it back in the day.

Image Source: DailyMail.co.uk

HEIDI KLUM

The Mcqueen house has become one of the most daringly practical names in the fashion industry. Whether it was the man himself, or Sarah Burton now, their collections are whacky, practical and always in demand. And that has, over the years, only encouraged them to express their creativity. And the 12-inch high heels that Heidi Klum wore on the Mcqueen Fall 2009 runway showcasing the extreme high heel shoes are yet another evidence of their objective to offer wearable extreme fashion.

Image Source: TrendHunter.com

TAYLOR MOMSEN

Taylor Momsen is known for a lot of things. From gaining worldwide popularity due to her twisted character in Gossip Girl to becoming a teenage icon, she has been evolving in more ways than one. And she obviously has no intentions of slowing down. She wore platform heels that had a small opening and title "tips", and a dollar bill on the inside. Where other celebrities were pulling fashion off, she went ahead and pretty much made these impractical heels practical!

Image Source: MTVstyle.com

THE GUINNESS WORLD RECORD HOLDERS

You cannot talk about the highest heels without mentioning the ones that made it to the Guinness book of World Records. The highest heeled shoes commercially available, according to the famed recordkeeping establishment, are the 20 inch platform boots created by the Indian designer James Syiemiong.

Image Source: howdoyouwearthoseshoes.blogspot.com

These are some of the highest heels ever created, and with stars like Lady Gaga and Taylor Momsen expressing their individuality in every way they can, the sky is the limit. While these feats of the human foot are more than likely to be attention-grabbing schemes, there is no doubt that as the heel grows, the comfort level shrinks and the price tag goes up. Be sure to use some form of high heel cover to keep your fashion investments looking as good as the day you bought them. 

Clickless High Heel Protectors

What to do Before Going to the Cobbler

Does the word "Cobbler" remind you of warm gooey peaches topped with a crunchy crust, straight from the oven? Cobbler is not only a favorite dessert, it’s an old word and an old profession. A trusted Cobbler can be the shoe lover's best friend.

With the amount of thought, mental scrutiny, money and time that you put into selecting every pair of shoes, wouldn't it make sense to take precautions to protect your investment in fabulosity? Use our three "step" program below before going to the cobbler.

The Pre-Cobbler Three Step Program (no pun intended)

shoe repair

Step 1. Pre-treat: A little shoe-shine can go a long way! Have you spotted one those funny couches in an airport or city street? Well, they serve a function! Treat your feet and your shoes to a little treat. Shoe polish not only cleans and sparkles a dull finish but can condition a shoe's material and extend the life of a favorite pair of kicks. If its the winter season, add a water repellent.


Slippery Shoe

Step 2. Clean: For the same reason as periodic treatments, keep those shoes clean. Dirt will degrade leather, suede or man-made material and lead to a faster break-down, which can result less traction and a less-than-solid shoe statement. Make sure the heel and sole are clean and free of debris as well as the interior of the shoe and foot bed.    

Shoe Care Cleaning

Step 3. Protect: For every type of shoe, there is a treatment to ensure your feet are looking their best. Consider a high heel protector for higher heels and for peace of mind that those heels are resting assuredly on your favorite bar stool rung.

And, last but not least...

High Heel Protector

Repair: If there is damage beyond what a clean and polish can take care of, such as a deep nick, scratch, or a snapped heel, you should head to the nearest shoe Cobbler. In case of breakage, remember to keep any and all parts of the shoe. The cobbler may need them to reconstruct. This can be a hefty investment but worth it for a favorite pair of shoes. 

Note that many cobblers don’t have websites. Ask other snappy shoe owners for their go-to spot. We're sure they’d be happy to share.

Images (top down): jikatu, statickflickr, cocoparisienne, weinheld90

Clickless High Heel Protectors

Shopping for Vintage High Heels

For those who love the adventure of the hunt or the well-heeled collector that longs for the one-of-a kind piece; vintage shoes hold much appeal. How thrilling is it to know that you are the only woman in the city with that beaded cardigan or that crocodile skin handbag? Consignment shops and vintage boutiques are treasure chests of gems just waiting to be discovered. However, for the true vintage enthusiast, there’s a bit of education and know-how that is needed to spot the diamond in the rough, and rock that pair of heels.

Where to Go

A good way to get a feel for vintage is to take a peak online on vintage shoe websites. See what styles and eras you like and then visit a reputable vintage store. Store employees are full of helpful information and can fit you into a fabulous pair in no time.

Know Your Fabric

The material that stands the test of time tends to be leather, usually from Spain or Italy. However, there are plenty of swede, fabric and embellished pairs in quality condition. Examine the shoe carefully for tears, scuffs and discoloration. 

Repair

Sure there are plenty of vintage heels for sale in mint condition. But if you budget is a little smaller, a scuff mark or split heel can be the thrifty shopper's new best friend. For that split heel, try a high heel protector which can work wonders for your heel and prolong the already long life of your heel. Scuff marks can be removed with a number of household items from toothpaste to nail polish remover, depending on material. One item to keep in mind: if a material is ripped or cracked the shoe may not be repairable.

Let’s not forget the eau de vintage, or that vintage smell that seems attached to all things second-hand. It can be removed with a baking soda sachet, simply fill an old tight or hose with baking soda, tie with a rubber band and slip inside the shoe when not in use.

Storage

Once you’ve procured that dreamy pair of vintage high heels, one of the key factors in the fabulosity of your vintage shoe purchase is storage. The most important aspect of storage is airflow and keeping your shoes as dust-free as possible. There are a number of shoe racks and clothing racks that make this easy. Some prefer to use old shoe boxes, ala Carrie Bradshaw.

While bringing new life to a classic pair of heels is exhilarating, make sure and do your research, especially if you are looking to spend. Simply stick with this guide and you will be sporting a new/old vintage pair in no time!

Clickless High Heel Protectors

American Made High Heels & Shoes for Women

Don’t fear pledging allegiance to buying footwear in the USA. A long history of shoe manufacturing and an All-American attention to style and innovation have helped develop some of the world’s top brands here on our own soil. Comfortable and well-made, you’ll be surprised at the wide range of fashionable options that are produced domestically. Whether shopping for new shoes or strutting a favorite pair, feel free to give yourself a pat on the back for being patriotic. Shoe love of this kind is All-American.

Frye

Handcrafted in the United States for over 150 years, Frye makes a heel that you can strut straight from the windswept prairie right onto Park Avenue without missing a beat. Started in 1863 in Marlborough, Massachusetts, Frye began with a simple purpose, to ease the lives of factory workers by providing high quality, comfortable shoes. www.thefryecompany.com

Sbicca

Based in Los Angeles, Sbicca distills the California vibe into a stylish and well-made shoe. The Sbicca brand has been around for over 90 years and prides itself on Genuine Leather or Hand-woven jute materials and a special heel made out of light-weight and flexible polyurethane. So a Sbicca heel looks good, feels good and is well crafted. www.sbiccafootwear.com

Vivanz Footwear

Headquartered in Southern California, the "utmost respect and appreciation are circulated within production and distribution". Believing that their people are their greatest asset, VIvanz shoes are manufactured in both the U.S. and Mexico. www.vivanz.com

Munro American

More of a comfort/casual shoe, Munro American has been a family owned and operated business out of Arkansas since the late 1950's. They are dedicated to size, comfort, and of course, style. www.munroshoes.com

Eastland

"Made in Maine, USA" isn't just their slogan, it's Eastland's way of life. And it's been that way since 1955. These shoes are the embodiment of Maine, and a beautiful sight for the casual shoe lover. www.eastlandshoe.com

Jen and Kim

We love this business because not only was it founded by two young women who have known each other since grade school and live on opposite ends of the country, but because each shoe is custom made to your taste. Choose your style, materials and size to begin the process. Their mission is to increase domestic production. www.jenandkimshoes.com

Calleen Cordero

A combination of earthy and modern, Cathleen Cordero is "out to prove that hand crafted luxury can be made in the U.S.A.". We love this collection out of California. www.calleencordero.com

Salpy

Salpy shoes may have kind of a funny name, but all aspects of their manufacturing and design are done right in Southern California. Founded by a husband and wife team, there isn't much not to love about these beauties. www.salpy.net

From the beach to the runway, American made heels and shoes can help you conquer pretty much any situation in comfort and style. It’s in our constitution, as patriots and as women to have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And that includes happy feet.

Speaking of happy feet, if you want to keep your high heels looking new longer and soften your step, learn about our simple high heel caps. 

Clickless High Heel Protectors

How to Make Old Heels Look New

When you step out to strut your stuff, it’s always a good idea to put your best foot forward. But what if that foot is firmly planted in a favorite pair of heels that has started to look a little worn? Splits, chips, scuffs, scrapes and rips are common high heel problems that can all be fixed at home. Whether a furry friend has used your heels as a chew toy, or you're the victim of simple wear and tear, there are a number of steps you can take to put a spring back in your step and give an old pair of heels a loving little face lift.

5 Ways to Make High Heels Look Newer

1. Replace the Heel Tip

Because of pressure that the heel endures, a lost or chipped heel tip is a common issue. A replacement kit can be found at a shoe repair shop, online or at your local craft store. First, glue any split or torn fabric back to the heel with adhesive applied with a sponge or small nail brush. If damage is extensive, camouflage with a matching color acrylic paint. Second, either glue or hammer the tip into place. Lastly, file the heel tip to fit the shape of your shoe, but not too much that you weaken it. One way to prevent the need for this type of fix by wearing high heel protectors, especially when walking outdoors and on rough surfaces. 

2. Fix a Broken Ankle Strap

Don’t let this common problem slow you down. A sketchy heel strap, or blown out flip-flop or sandal is actually a very easy fix! A number of shoe adhesives are available at drug stores or even superglue would work in a pinch. First, remove any dirt or dust with a dry cloth, surfaces must be dry for the glue to set. Second, remove any stray thread or torn fabric. Apply glue and let sit for at least two minutes. Third, press pieces gently together and use a clamp to hold, a clothespin or paperclip will do. Let dry for 24 hours.

3. Walk This Way

When heels don’t fit properly they will show signs of age sooner. Luckily, there are a number of products that do double duty to help your feet and your fabulous heels! If an ankle rubs the back of the shoe, apply a band aid to create a barrier, or gel pads are re-usable. Foot inserts are available to take pressure off the ball of the foot, and arch supports help support the foot and back. The better fitting heel will instantly look newer.  

4. Condition, Condition, Condition

For any heel material, there is a way to clean and a way to pre-treat. A favorite shoe store or online site features a number of products to spiff up your heels. Each season, take out your collection of shoes and give each a clean. Then, depending on the circumstances, waterproof, de-salt, brush and buff each pair to perfection. Each pair will look renewed and this will prolong the life of the shoe.

5. Scratch & Color Fixes

When conditioning alone doesn't fix scratches, tears and scrapes, additional repair might be necessary. This is difficult with fabric shoes, but can be done with other materials as long as it isn't too deep or wide. First, prep the shoe by buffing out each scrape with leather oil. Then, use a color matching shoe polish to disguise the blemish.

Conclusion

Old age isn’t a good reason to retire a pair of heels, and expensive high heels are particularly worthy of the effort to keep them looking new. Renew your shoes with these handy tips and tricks and old becomes new again. It’s like getting new shoes without spending much money, and that makes everyone feel fabulous!

Clickless High Heel Protectors