Are your shoes making you look shorter? Avoid ankle straps, flats, chunky shoes

Did you know that the type of shoes you choose could make you look shorter or taller? From their shape and height to their design and colour, the right or wrong pair of shoes can influence how tall or short you appear. So, when focusing on your clothes, also spend some time focusing on your shoes because your footwear choices can also impact your proportions.

Several on-trend shoes may just not be right for you, and it’s important to understand what works for you visually. Choosing footwear that elongates your legs and creates balance can elevate your entire look.

Here is a guide to some shoe styles that may actually be making you look shorter, and how you can make better choices.

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• Ankle straps

Shoes that have ankle straps can cut your leg visually, especially when the straps are thick or sit high on the ankle. When there is a strap that cuts around the ankle, it draws short of the length, making a focal point at the ankle.

What to choose instead: Look for strapless designs, or thin, and low-cut strap shoes to keep the longer visual line going.

• Flat shoes

Shoes that are completely flat, like those such as ballet flats and loafers, provide no lift. When you are wearing a long outfit, these can make you seem even shorter.

What to choose instead: A pair of shoes with a slight heel or wedge that gives you a slight height without disregarding comfort.

• Round-toe shoes

The round shape of these shoes can make your legs look shorter by breaking the sleek line of your frame. While they work for casual occasions, they may not be the best choice for elongating your appearance.

What to choose instead: Try a pair of pointed-toe shoes, which are more streamlined and lengthening.

• High-top sneakers and boots

High-top designs cover more of your leg, visually shortening the appearance of your lower half. The bulkiness of some styles can also contribute to a stockier look.

What to choose instead: Low-top sneakers or ankle boots with minimal detailing help maintain the illusion of length.

Also read | A boot lover's guide to fashion: Exploring different types of boots

• Chunky or platform shoes

Platforms and chunky soles might add physical height, but their bulk can detract from your overall proportions. These styles tend to draw attention downward, disrupting the vertical line.

What to choose instead: Sleek heels or wedges with minimal bulk can elevate your height while keeping the look balanced.

• Dark shoes with light pants

Wearing dark-coloured shoes with light-coloured pants creates a stark contrast that visually divides your legs, making them appear shorter.

What to choose instead: Choose shoes that match your pants or are in neutral tones to create a seamless flow.

• Oversized or overly detailed shoes

Heavy embellishments, thick soles, or oversized designs can overwhelm your frame. This draws attention away from your overall outfit and can make you look shorter.

What to choose instead: Minimalist shoe designs help keep the focus on your overall look and elongate your silhouette.

Styling tips to look taller

Beyond choosing the right footwear, there are styling tricks you can use to create the illusion of added height. These strategies ensure your entire outfit works harmoniously.

• High-waisted pants and skirts: High-waisted clothing elongates your legs by raising the visual starting point. Pairing these with streamlined shoes enhances the effect.

• Monochromatic outfits: Wearing a single colour or closely matching tones for your outfit and shoes creates an uninterrupted visual line, making you appear taller.

• Nude-coloured shoes: Skin-toned footwear blends seamlessly with your legs, preventing any breaks in the visual flow. This is especially effective when wearing skirts, dresses, or shorts.

• Avoid heavy socks with short shoes: Pairing short shoes with heavy or contrasting socks can visually cut off your legs. Stick to no-show socks or ones that match your shoe colour.

Choosing the right shoes can have a big impact on your overall appearance. Focus on sleek designs, subtle lifts, and harmonious styling to boost your confidence and refine your style.