SHOESFOR ESFOR ALLSIZES SIZES

Every woman should own at least one pair of spectacular heels— or flats! Our curvy columnist, Meredith Shaw, rounds up the best styles available in wide widths or extended sizes.

I THINK BETTE MIDLER SAID IT BEST: “I firmly believe that with the right footwear, one can rule the world.” Overselling it? Maybe, but the sentiment isn’t totally wrong. A few weeks ago, I was with my girlfriends for a much overdue night out, wearing a gorgeous pair of bright-pink pumps—you know the ones that are entirely impractical but fulfill your eight-year-old Barbie dreams?—and instead of living my best life with my amazing friends, my tootsies were numb with pain within hours. Let’s just say, blisters were soon to come, and all I could think about was hobbling home and never moving again! So what did I do? I took my beautiful but ill-fitting heels and went home early. FOMO ensued.

This story is all too common among women, but if you happen to be tall with wide feet, the struggle is even more real. But don’t fret! The shoe fairies have been listening, so there are some fab footwear brands and websites offering extended sizing and wide widths. No more going home early, no more missing out—it’s time to rule the world!

1. LEVEL UP

These heels offer height without sacrificing comfort. Opting for a chunky-heeled shoe will give you a great combo of height and support while adding a current and carefree vibe to any outfit. Topshop magnolia-embroidered platform shoes (sizes 6 to 11), $68, thebay.com.

2. TAKE A SHINE

Shiny finishes are the new neutral; instead of matching or clashing with your outfit, they coordinate by standing out. From silver to gold to rose gold (a favourite of mine), each metallic tone will play nice with every ensemble. Strappy metallic sandals (sizes 10 to 15), $195, loniashoes.com.

3. CULT CLASSIC

No laces, buckles or straps need apply; a true classic pump has a seamless centre with a pointed toe and a heel. If you’re taller and think you can’t wear heels, get over it and be the bigger person, literally. I’m 5’10”, so most heels have me soaring over six feet, but the sooner you learn to embrace your height, the quicker you can enjoy that moment when all eyes turn your way as you walk into a room. Own it! Suede pumps (sizes 6 to 13), $299, eleanoranukam.com.

4. SEASONLESS FOOTWEAR

Are you feeling apprehensive about wearing ankle boots this spring? Don’t. They’re a versatile year-round staple, and it really comes down to how you style them. Instead of reaching for pumps to complete your office attire, try a bootie for a slight rocker edge. Red booties (sizes 11 to 14), $130, smashshoes.com. Suede stiletto booties (sizes 10 to 15), $208, loniashoes.com.

5. FUN FLATS

Whether they’re decorated with rhinestones, pom-poms, dreamy prints or ribbon, I love that flats are making a style statement this season. The once-boring option for those days when your feet are too scream-y to wear heels are now studded with personality—heck, I even own a pair with interchangeable emojis! Pom-pom sneakers (sizes 5 to 12), $110, ninewest.ca.