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It’s a walk in the park” is an expression people use to describe something that is really easy. Walking seems so simple; it’s just one foot in front of the other.
Walking gracefully takes a little more awareness and effort. Not that you should emulate runway models; they don’t walk that way off the runway.
Walking with grace puts good posture in motion. Your shoulders are level, your spine is straight, your head is up, your heel hits the ground first, and the weight rolls to the ball of your foot, which you use to push off for your next step. Your gait is natural— not tiptoe tiny and not as if you are preparing to do the long jump. Back in the previous century, young women used to practice walking properly by balancing a book on their heads as they walked back and forth across a room. That probably seems a bit extreme these days, though it might be fun to see how you do.
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When you walk with grace and confidence, you present yourself as a positive person. Knowing how is the foundation for mastering a skill unique to women: walking gracefully and confidently in high heels.
YOU DO
Buy shoes in the correct size.
YOU DON’T
Buy shoes that are too small thinking they will “stretch” or shoes that are too big thinking you can make them work.
Why
Shoes that pinch or rub will make you hobble. Shoes that are too big make you look like a little girl trying on your mom’s shoes. Neither scenario is pretty. No matter how cute the shoes are, if they’re not available in your size, they’re not the shoes for you.
YOU DO
Practice walking in heels at home before going out in public.
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YOU DON’T
Think your first pair of heels will not require some practice.
Why
When you learned to ride a bike, you started with something your size equipped with training wheels. Think of heels the same way; start with something small and low to the ground. Every time you gain height in the heel, practice walking around at home on the carpet, hard surfaces, and especially the stairs. There’s little that looks as awkward as tripping over your own feet or wobbling and falling off your heels.
A lady doesn’t shuffle as if she’s sweeping the floor with her shoes, but picks up her feet when she walks.
A lady doesn’t walk so heavily that she sounds like she’s wearing horseshoes.
A lady doesn’t wobble on her heels; if you do, you need more practice.
A lady doesn’t swing her bottom from side to side when she walks.