An article caught my eye on MSN today by Tracey Lomrantz. She got a number of fashion week pros to comment on wearing stilettos with grace, style and minimal pain. I’ve summarised them here, but definitely check out the full article (with 3 more tips!) along with other Fashion Week 09 articles at MSN Lifestyle

Wear them informally before the event you bought them for

If you’ve bought a new pair of heels for a special occasion, you’re likely to end up disappointed by the whole event if all you can think of is the excruciating pain you’re in. The solution? Break them in the day before. Author of How to Walk in High Heels Camilla Morton recommends going to the supermarket. You can use the cart for balance while your feet adjust to the new heel.

Specialist fitness classes can help you with your balance

Gym classes like Yoga or Pilates help runway model Hana Jirckova keep balance in high heels on the catwalk. Balance starts in the core muscles; the more aware you are of them, the better chance you have of staying steady.

Take a breather

America’s Next Top Model’s catwalk coach J. Alexander suggests sitting every 20 minutes. Not only will it give your feet a break, sitting straight and with your legs crossed can help to draw attention to your new shoes – after all, it’s the main reason you’re wearing them!

No assembly necessary? Not exactly

Wear your shoes around the house for about an hour after purchase. Wherever you feel a bit of rubbing or aching, cushion up! You won’t last the night unless you target these areas beforehand. So stock up on ‘rub relief’ strips and ‘ball of foot cushions’ if you’re planning on dancing the night away – your feet will thank you in the AM.

Lengthen the legs

Elegance and grace starts not in the way you look but the way you look when you walk. Runway model Ali Stephens recommends straightening and extending your leg with every step – slowing down your pace and paying attention to your step will ensure you don’t look uncoordinated and clumsy.