How to Pick Shoes That Make You Look Taller

Searching methods to add a few extra inches to your look? You're not alone. There are many of us who are short and would like to be taller and there are plenty of products under the sun where one can make that dream come true but none as instantly as wearing the right pair of shoes. The best part is you don't need an expensive surgery or weird gadgets, a great pair of shoes can make your height and enhance your confidence in no time.

This ultimate guide will teach you how to choose your shoes so they will naturally elongate your body while still keeping you comfortable and stylish. From heights of heels to colors, we'll hit all the things you need to know to make thoughtful shoe choices that reflect your lifestyle.

Why Those Shoes are Just Right for Your Height

The type of shoes you wear can add or subtract inches to your height. Not only can heels or platforms physically add height, certain shoe styles also play visual tricks that allow your legs to look longer and your silhouette to be more elongated.

The science of this has to do with how our eyes interpret proportions and lines. If you put on shoes that suit your body's natural proportions, they can help create an unbroken vertical line that will lead people's eyes upwards, to make you look taller than you actually are.

Best Shoes for Height Increase

High Heels: The Original Height Enhancer

High heels continue to be the most common option to instantly add height. Yet, not all heels accomplish the same goal of increasing your height.

Stiletto Heels: These are very thin and tall heels and can quickly make you stand three to five inches taller. They give you a clean line that elongates your leg and makes you look very tall. But it can be difficult to walk around in them all day.

Block Heels: Thicker and generally more stable than a stiletto, with block heels you can have both height and comfort. They're usually 2-4 inches in height, and are much more comfortable to walk around in all day.

Wedge Heels: Wedges are a more evenly distributed type of heel, typically with a taller heel and stability distributing the weight across your foot. They can give you an extra 2-5 inches of height and have great support.

Platform Shoes: Maximum Height and Comfort at the Same Time

Platforms have thick soles because they elevate the heel as well as the toe. This type of design puts them in between high heels and regular shoes and they are far more comfortable than high heels, because they keep your feet in a more natural position.

Benefits of Platform Shoes:

• Add 2-6 inches of height

• More comfortable than regular heels

• Provide better weight distribution

• Available in many styles

Elevator Shoes: Hidden Height Boost

Elevator shoes, also known as height increasing shoes, have a thickened segment of insole (known as a "lift") which will increase the wearer's height and provide greater shock absorption. These are ideal for people who need extra height without being too obvious.

Types of Elevator Shoes:

• Dress shoes with lifts (add 2-4 inches)

• Casual shoes with elevation

• Boots with concealed heel elevation

• Athletic shoes with thick soles

Color and Design Techniques for Adding Height

The Power of Monochromatic Looks

Matching your shoes to your pants or to your outfit creates an unbroken line of a single color that can help your legs to look longer. This optical illusion is especially effective with:

• Black shoes with black pants

• Nude shoes with bare legs

• Brown shoes and brown or tan clothing

• Navy shoes with navy outfits

Pointed Toe vs. Round Toe Shoes

The toe shape of your shoe can have a major effect on your perceived height:

Pointed Toe Shoes:

• Add length with this optical illusion

• Add some length to your foot

• Create a longer, leaner line

• Pair well with high heels or flat shoes

• Make legs appear longer

Round Toe Shoes:

• Make feet appear shorter and wider

• More comfort, less height effect though

• Work well with casual outfits

• Good choice for everyday wear

Ankle Straps: Friend or Foe?

Ankle straps can work for or against your height goals depending on how you style them:

Height-Enhancing Ankle Straps:

• Dainty and nude (or matching) straps

• Higher ankle straps

• T-bar looks that elongate the silhouette

Avoid These Ankle Strap Styles:

• Thick and chunky ankle straps

• Contrasting color straps

• Several straps that divide the line of the leg

Heel Height Guide: How to Find Your Match

Picking the Right Heel Height for Your Lifestyle

For the Beginner: Begin with 1-2 inch heels as you become comfortable and confident. Low block heels or little wedges will be your best first option.

For Daily Wear: No more than 2-3 inch heels that you can stand in for 6-8 hours. Give cushioned insoles a try for added comfort.

When Only The Dramatic Will Do: You can wear a 3-5 inch stiletto for a limited period of time, if you'll be sitting or standing in place.

Height Increasing Sneakers and Casual Shoes

Not everyone wants to be in heels every day. Luckily there are plenty of casual options that can elevate you to new heights and keep your feet happy at the same time.

Platform Sneakers

Contemporary platform sneakers can give you an extra 1-3 inches in height but still look casually athletic. Look for:

• Clean, streamlined designs

• Neutral colors that match with multiple outfits

• Quality construction for durability

• Comfortable cushioning

Thick-Soled Athletic Shoes

The thick, chunky soles on many athletic shoes currently in style give a boost to height. Popular options include:

• Running shoes with maximal cushioning

• Basketball shoes with high soles

• Fashion sneakers with platform designs

• Cross-training shoes with elevated heels

Boots for Height

Boots are another way to gain a little extra height. They'll not only give you extra inches, but if they're at least ankle height, they also offer support around the ankle and the options for boot pairs are practically endless!

Heeled Boots:

• 2-4 inch heeled ankle boots

• Knee-high boots with block heels

• Over-the-knee boots for the ultimate in leg stretch

Platform Boots:

• Combat boots with thick soles

• Fashion boots with platform construction

• Winter boots with elevated soles

Men's Height-Boosting Shoe Options

Men have enough style choices for looking taller without looking feminine or feeling uncomfortable.

Dress Shoes with Lifts

Dress Shoes: Traditional dress shoes can have lifts inserted internally or purchased with added height.

Loafers: These can have a wedge hidden inside, and work well for business casual.

Dress Boots: Chelsea and chukka boots usually already come with slightly thicker soles and work well with lifts.

Casual Options for Men

Sneakers: A lot of men's sneakers have thick soles these days, and some can be augmented with sole-increasing insoles.

Work Boots: Industrial strength work boots obviously add height as well as protection and durability.

Athletic Shoes: Basketball shoes and cross-trainers have a naturally thick sole which adds height.

Shopping Tips for Height-Enhancing Shoes

What to Consider When Shopping

Comfort Features:

• Cushioned insoles

• Proper arch support

• Breathable materials

• Secure fit without pinching

Quality Construction:

• Sturdy heel attachment

• Durable sole materials

• Quality stitching

• Proper weight distribution

Style Versatility:

• Colors that match your wardrobe

• Designs suitable for multiple occasions

• Classic looks that will never go out of style

Trying on Height-Boosting Shoes

Shop for shoes in the afternoon, when feet are at their biggest, for the most comfortable fit all day long.

Testing Comfort:

• Walk around the store for a good 5-10 minutes

• Test on different surfaces if you can

• Check that there's no pressure on the toes or heels

• Make sure your foot isn't sliding forward

Size Considerations:

• It might be necessary to move up half a size in a platform shoe

• Elevator shoes may be sized differently

• When in doubt, size up and err on the side of roomier

How to Clean and Care for Your Elevation Shoes

How to Make Height-Boosting Shoes Last Longer

Regular Maintenance:

• Replace heel tips when worn out

• Store shoes with proper support

• Use shoe trees to keep shape

• Clean regularly with appropriate products

Protecting Your Investment:

• Use protective spray against water and stains

• Rotate between different pairs to decrease wear

• Store in dust bags or boxes

• Don't wear the same pair every day

Making Shoes More Comfortable

Insole Options:

• Gel inserts for extra cushioning

• Arch support inserts for improved alignment

• Metatarsal pads to reduce pressure

• Heel grips to prevent slipping

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Shoe Mistakes That Take Away Height

Contrasting Ankle Straps: They cut the visual line of your leg, shortening the overall look of the leg compared to shoes in nude or matching tones.

Chunky, Bulky Shoes: Oversized shoes can overtake your proportion and make you look smaller by comparison.

Incorrect Heel Height: Your posture and confidence is thrown off if you try to wear a heel that's not right for you.

Style Mistakes to Avoid

Too Many Patterns: If you have too many pattern-heavy pieces, complex designs on the shoes distract the eyes down instead of creating height-enhancing vertical lines.

Disregarding Proportion: There are shoes that suit your body proportions and others that work against them.

Building a Height-Enhancing Shoe Wardrobe

Essential Pairs to Own

For Women:

• Nude heels (with a 2-3 inch heel) – can wear with many outfits

• Black ankle boots with heel, perfect for fall and winter

• White or neutral platform sneakers

• Wedge sandals for summer

• Pointed-toe flats with slight heel

For Men:

• Black and brown dress shoes with elevation

• Casual sneakers with thick soles

• Chelsea boots with elevated heels

• Loafers with hidden height enhancement

• Athletic shoes with maximal cushioning

Budget-Friendly Options

Building a shoe collection that will give you a few extra inches doesn't have to cost a fortune:

Money-Saving Tips:

• Shop end of season sales

• Check outlet stores of designer brands

• Look for inserts for shoes you already have

• Invest in quality basics that can be dressed up or down

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the maximum height that shoes can add realistically? A: It really depends on the style. Shoes can add anywhere from 1 to 6 inches to your height. Average height increments can range from 2-4 inches, while very high platforms may add significantly more – though not always comfortably and practically.

Q: Can elevator shoes be detected by others? A: A good pair of elevator shoes is supposed to look like a normal pair of shoes. The height gain is incorporated within the construction of the shoe, its discreet design being invisible to the outside world.

Q: Can wearing high heels or platform shoes be harmful to one's health? A: Very high heels worn on a daily basis can lead to foot problems, but modest heel heights (2 to 3 inches) are okay for most people. The trick is opting for well-fitting shoes and not wearing sky-high heels every day.

Q: What's the trick to walking with confidence in height-boosting shoes? A: Begin wearing lower heels and slowly work your way up to higher heels. Walk around the house, take shorter steps, practice good posture. The longer you wear them, the more natural they will feel.

Q: What's the ideal heel height for beginners? A: Beginners can choose 1-2 inch heeled shoes or platforms. This height provides a good lift, but you also get good balance, stability and confidence to learn walking the right way.

Q: Do chunky soles create a bulky effect for a shoe? A: Not necessarily. Contemporary platform and thick-soled shoes are made with streamlined silhouettes that give you height without looking clunky. Opt for styles that have slim profiles and solid construction.

Q: Are platform shoes suitable for men? A: Absolutely! Men can wear platform sneakers, boots with chunky soles, dress shoes with built-in lifts. The trick is opting for styles that suit your particular taste and lifestyle.

Q: How can you tell if elevator shoes will fit properly? A: Given that the shoes have lifts inside, they may fit differently compared to regular shoes. You're best off trying them on in person or make sure you study the sizing guide before you buy online. You might even have to go up half a size.

Final Thoughts: Step Into More Confidence

When it comes to finding shoes that make you taller, it's not all about the added inches you'll get from their height-increasing features – but rather the confidence boost they will give you. Whether you like elevator shoes that are more subtle, comfortable platforms, or classic heels, there are options for every style preference and lifestyle need.

Just remember that the most important thing is to pick shoes that make you look and feel good. When you look good in your shoes, it reflects in your posture, gait and presence. Don't be afraid to try out different styles and heel heights until it feels right for you.

The optimal set of height-increasing shoes can transform more than just your look – it can completely alter your perspective. Spend some time looking for quality choices that will fit you properly, that will complement your style, and that will give you the confidence to be your best self. Armed with the advice and strategies in this guide, you are now in a position to build a shoe collection that truly raises your game.

Begin with smaller heels, and give yourself plenty of time to become accustomed to the new height and feel of your footwear, but most of all, enjoy yourself while you are taking risks with fashion. Your perfect height-increasing shoes are waiting for you – now you know exactly how to find them!