The taboo surrounding high heels if you stand 5 feet 7 inches or taller has long been a source of frustration for towering females since the invention of the stiletto. Thanks to my six and a half foot father, I ended up at a solid 5 feet 8 inches. In high school I would have never dared to wear heels, but now that I’m constantly among high-class fashionistas and sorority girls alike, it seems like the “clackers” have taken over Arizona State University. Weekends will be filled with girls in cute little outfits rocking their stilettos. I emphasize little because these girls often stand around 5 feet 3 inches. But what about the tall ladies? Here’s how you can put on a sexy pair of heels without feeling like the awkward amazon in the room.
The Wedge
Wedges are ideal for taller girls because they are easy to walk in and comfortable to wear for a night out in Tempe. Wedges are also a great alternative to the high-rising stiletto because you can wear them in a variety of heights, and they still look just as cute. The wedge can range from sexy sky-high platforms if you’re feeling daring, or you can tone them down with a simple cork-bottom slingback wedge if you just want a little extra lift for class.
“I love wearing wedges because I feel confident and comfortable in my own skin without feeling like I’m overwhelming people over my height. Plus, really comfortable so I can wear them out when I know I might be walking a lot.”
-Cydney Henderson, 5 feet 7 inches
The Lita Look-a-Like
The Lita, designed by Jeffrey Campbell, is similar to a platform, lace-up ankle boot. The difference between Litas and the “look-a-like Litas,” I’ve discovered, is not only the wonderful difference in price tag, but also their difference in height. Stores like Charlotte Russe and Necessary Clothing have been recreating their version of the Lita but with a less severe platform. This shoe is ideal for the taller fashionista because you can still buy stylish shoes, but without feeling like you’re going to tower over the basketball team after you put them on.
“These are hands down my favorite pair of shoes. I can wear them out at night and not feel like the over-dressed girl because these shoes are so casual, but that doesn’t make them any less cute. I feel confident enough in them to even wear them to class, because the only give me a few more inches.”
-Emmy Nicholson, 5 feet 8 inches
The Bootie
The bootie provides another ideal alternative for long-legged ladies. A lot of times stiletto heels can look awkward if they aren’t 3 inches or over, and, personally, I’m not a fan of kitten heels unless you are at least thirty years old and going to a business meeting. Booties are perfect for taller women because it gives them the opportunity to indulge in heels because they can be fashionable at a number of different heights.
“I like wearing these shoes because they fit my personality – fierce. I feel confident in them because they are only 3 inches, opposed to five like a lot of heels are, so, I can walk easily in them without being afraid to embrace my natural height.”
-Alexa Renfroe, 5 feet 11 inches
Emily Nicholson
Photo Credits: Emily Nicholson// Alexa Renfroe
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