There’s an entire industry built on selling the mystique of walking beautifully in heels. Every season brings a new crop of TikTok tips, glossy magazine pronouncements, and glamorous adverts that lead people to believe there’s a strict formula—or even a supernatural gift—behind that confident click-clack. The truth? Most of what you’ve been told about walking in heels is less fact and more fiction. At Walking in Heels, I meet people every week who feel anxious or ashamed because of outdated, unhelpful myths. Today, let’s bust them, and invite in some freedom, pride, and fun.
Myth 1: Some People Just Have It—You Either Can or You Can’t
One of the oldest tales in the book: you’re either a “natural heel-wearer” or you’re doomed to a life of flats. The reality? No one is born able to walk in heels; this is a learned skill, built from muscle memory, posture habits, and—crucially—a permission slip to practise! At Walking in Heels, I’ve had the privilege of coaching absolute beginners (of all ages, genders, and abilities) through to confident, head-held-high strutters. Yes, some pick it up quickly, and others savour a slow-burn progress. But every single person has the capacity to improve.
Myth 2: Higher Means More Glamour (and Success)
It’s tempting to believe that confidence is measured in centimetres and that a six-inch stiletto brings a bigger transformation than a simple, low-block heel. In reality, your most glamorous and empowering walk is whatever feels strong and true to you. Some of the world’s style icons—across gender, age, and culture—prefer mid or modest heels. At Walking in Heels, our VIP tuition always begins with comfort, safety, and real-world style that serves you, not someone else’s standards. Your confidence doesn’t care about shoe height—it cares that you feel poised every step, whether in kitten heels, platforms, or a classic court.
Myth 3: Pain Is a Badge of Honour
The idea that you must ‘break in’ your feet with blisters, burning arches, or wobbly ankles is not just old-fashioned—it’s unhealthy. The right pair of heels should support you and let you walk confidently without flinching. In our sessions, we prioritise fit, style, and safety. Being proud on your feet shouldn’t mean limping to the taxi at the end of the night. Comfortable is always chic, and it’s never a sign of ‘giving up’ to choose shoes that let you move with ease and joy.
Myth 4: Heels Are Reserved for Certain Bodies, Genders, or Ages
Despite the glossy adverts, there’s no secret club. Heels have been worn for centuries by royalty, rebels, performers, and everyday people of all genders, sizes, and backgrounds. At Walking in Heels, inclusivity isn’t just a policy—it’s the foundation. If you want to learn, explore, or reclaim your stride, our VIP tuition is built just for you. Whether you’re starting for a milestone, performance, personal celebration, or quiet everyday confidence, you belong here.
Myth 5: Mistakes Mean You’re Not Cut Out for It
Everyone wobbles. Everyone stumbles. Perfection isn’t the goal—progress is. Some of the most confident clients I’ve coached had spectacular (and hilarious) goofs along the way. At Walking in Heels, mistakes are celebrated as proof you’re stepping up. In fact, often it’s the willingness to try, laugh, and keep going that unlocks the biggest transformations. Your journey should have space for grins and grace in equal measure.
So What Actually Works?
Forget the clickbait and take your time. Here’s what makes a real difference for confident heel-walking:
– Start with the right shoe. Choose for comfort and style, not trends.
– Practise in a safe, relaxed environment. Give yourself permission to go slow and experiment.
– Prioritise posture and gentle strength. A little attention to stance and breath goes a long way.
– Stay playful. The best breakthroughs happen when you let go of judgment and enjoy the process.
– Book a bit of expert support. Personalised tuition can unpick old myths and fast-track your confidence, with zero pressure.
Freed From Myths, Ready to Stride
If you’ve been held back by stories that say heels are ‘not for you,’ consider this your invitation to step out of that narrative. The joy of walking in heels comes from embracing your individuality, learning at your own pace, and discovering styles and skills that fit your life—not the old rulebook. At Walking in Heels, you’ll find a champion for every wobble, every triumph, and every unique stride.
Ready to break a few rules, laugh at the myths, and write your own chapter? Let’s do it together—one confident (or experimental!) step at a time.
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Maribel is the founder of Walking in Heels, a Lucie Clayton Finishing School graduate, and a champion of empowering, inclusive coaching. Explore VIP Heel-Walking Tuition in Brighton & Hove, across the UK, or virtually worldwide—every transformation begins by unlearning the myths and celebrating your story.