Ask Our Style Techs | Ankle Straps That Flatter?

Q: I love the new ankle strap shoes that are so popular right now, but I don’t have the thinnest ankles in the world, so I’m not sure I can wear them and have them look good. Any suggestions?
– Claire N.

A: Ankle straps aren’t always the easiest look to pull off, BUT all ankle straps are not created equal and certain styles are definitely more flattering than others! Three things to keep in mind when shopping for your next shoe acquisition in the ankle strap family:

1) Thin ankle straps slim the leg and ankle. The thicker the strap, the thicker your leg will appear because you are covering up the skinniest part of your leg – your ankle.

2) Look for nude or skin tone ankle straps. The closer the color of the strap matches your skin tone, the slimmer your leg will appear. Nude shoes always elongate the leg and line of your whole body. Shoes that you may not be able to pull off in black will often work great in nude.

3) Go for a heel. The higher the heel, the slimmer your leg and ankle will appear. If you’re not a high heel lover, look for a wedge or platform style shoe, both will add comfort to the height.

Shoes featured in photos, L to R: Sam Edelman. Manolo Blahnik.

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